Often touring in the maritime region, but currently residing in BC, Harry Manx is a talented performer and poet. Fusing a melancholic combination of blues and folk with his scruffy vocals, he delivers a very beautiful package.
Manx was born on The Isle of Man where he spent his youth before immigrating to BC, where he made a name for himself with his talent. He has since spent extensive time in Europe and Canada, as well as Japan and India where he lived and performed for a ten year period.
His music acts as a reflection of his time spent there, incorporating styles from the respective countries of both Indian and Japanese compositions.
Integrating many instruments and harmonizing vocals into his album, West Eats Meets should be the first record that you listen to in order to get a genuine feel for what he has to offer musically and lyrically. There is a strong melancholic presence in his poetic lyrics as many songs deal with death and moving on in a calming, but brusque fashion.
Often told as more of a short story, they describe a journey of someone learning of the ups and downs of life.
Manx has mastered a wide variety of stringed instruments, including slide guitar, six-string banjo, Mohan Veena and his home-made cigar box guitar. He’s also perfected a unique vocal style that he ties into his calming rustic rhythms and backup vocals that just put the icing on the cake.
As far as touring again goes, Manx has an upcoming album that will be released on Feb. 13. From there, he will begin touring Canada, mostly across Quebec and Ontario, but thankfully gracing NB with his presence at The Playhouse in Fredericton on March 19. Be sure to check him out!
To hear some of my favorite Harry Manx songs, check out the Baron’s YouTube page at youtube.com/thebaronsj
