Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
The orchestral folk/rock group Mike Mangione & The Kin will be releasing their new record But I’ve Seen The Stars on October 20th, but you can hear their new single “Riding Down” below.
Mangione says “The song is based out of the classic question of who am I, what am I and where am I going? Roots music has a long tradition in dealing with either running toward or away from light/darkness. This song swims in the same waters. In this case the protagonist is fighting to break out and run towards the good and he knows that when he finally gets free the hounds will be howling.“
Up until 2014, Mike led the group Mike Mangione & The Union, alongside his brother Thomas. After they dissolved, Mike began spending time in the Northwoods of Wisconsin to focus on writing his fifth studio record. In addition to having his brother in the fold, Mangione was in need of an accomplished rhythm section for the project. He reached out to friends, Josh Collazo (drums) and Seth Ford-Young (bass) of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. Later, Mangione was introduced to Chauntee and Monique Ross of the band Sistastrings. Their musicality on violin and cello, as well as beautiful vocal harmonies won Mike over. Having two sets of siblings in the group sparked the new moniker Mike Mangione & The Kin and resulted in a gentle, shining new effort.
Mangione says “When we recorded ‘Riding Down’ we were in the big room, studio room B, at United Recording in LA. It was my brother, Tom and I, on the side, facing Josh and Seth. The song was just a guitar riff at that time. I expressed a loose vision to them, referencing Howlin’ Wolf and Wille Dixon. Right away they caught on, set the groove and we were off. We had it recorded within 30 minutes.“
But I’ve Seen The Stars is available for pre-order now on iTunes and includes an instant download of “Riding Down”.
Upcoming tour dates:
Sep 16th @ The Abbey Fest – Paoli, Pennsylvania
Sep 28th @ Hotel Cafe – Los Angeles, CA
Oct 4th @ Shitty Barn Concert Series – Spring Green, WI
Nov 17th @ Anodyne Coffee – Milwaukee, WI
Connect with Mike Mangione & The Kin:
Website // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter
