Spring Manifestation takes form in Mandrake Handshake’s debut album: ‘Earth-Sized Worlds’
Earth-Sized Worlds album artwork
Welcome to the wonderful world of Mandrake Handshake. Take a seat whilst the London/Oxford-based collective takes you on a journey of the senses. With a varying number of members, this group is truly unique. From a flamboyant tambourine shaker, multiple lead vocals and a flutist ‘Earth Sized Worlds’ is a feast for the ears.
As listeners delve into Mandrake Handshake’s wonderful world, they are greeted by synths and bird calls. Matching melodies and unique lyrics connect each song, but a surprise awaits in every track, keeping listeners both connected and on their toes.
‘Earth-Sized Worlds’ was created in collaboration with producer Dom Kirtley. Across nine 12-hour days, the world of Mandrake Handshake came to life in the rooftop studio in Woolwich. In just over a week, the collective pushed themselves to the edge of their creativity to create something out of this world. From steel drums to choirs, they created explosions and new atmospheres in a body of work that feels lived in.
‘Earth-Sized Worlds’ welcomes in the Spring and fresh life, encouraging listeners to go on a journey of rebirth and growth. From the start, you are plugged into the band’s creation of Space Beach. “As Time Goes Up” begins with static from amps and instruments warming up, you can feel the heat of the tropical sun on your face. Defined by the band as a land of dichotomies, where the sea joins the sky, and trees reach the stars, Space Beach is the best way to describe this album and its sound. This is where all the galaxies meet to create a world of complete balance and serenity.
A standout track that encapsulates the album’s message is “The Change And The Changing.” Inspired by a solo trip that lead vocalist Trinity Oksana took to Edinburgh, “The Change And The Changing” is full of magic and healing properties. With inspiring and profound lyrics, this song takes on the form of manifestation and taking full control of life. This song is summed up in one lyric: “To open that door, will reshape my life like sticky clay.”
Few bands can create such a physical feeling and place through instruments and harmonies. Mandrake Handshake uses vocals, guitars, and saxophones to create vivid narratives and stories throughout Earth-Sized Worlds. In “King Cnut”, a tale of a 10th-11th century ruler who is attempting to push back incoming tides. They use a multitude of percussions and harmonies to simulate the physical feeling of water and people charging against this ruler.
Mandrake Handshake by Marieke Hulzinga
Towards the end of the album, darkness starts to creep in. A twist in the light and sunny sound. “Barranmode” is where 70s psychedelic rock meets disco and stands out amongst the usual sunny and warm tracks. But the darkness doesn’t stay around for too long. “Find The Tree (And Dig Deep)!” sees the darkness and the light battle it out for dominance. With soft vocals and harsh guitar, the album starts to conclude with birds chirping that transition into chants in the title track and album closer.
“Earth-Sized Worlds” ties the whole album together. With nods to previous tracks, you can hear and feel every member. This nine-minute song is the perfect album closer, solidifying the album’s message of peace and serenity. It is a beautiful song that closes an incredibly unique body of work.
This album is the perfect soundtrack as winter melts away and Spring is welcomed in. The mostly instrumental tracks allow them to showcase their talent as a collective. Every song has a message that has the power to heal and change lives. From every beat to vocal, this album becomes the listener and moulds itself to each personal experience.
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