Manu Delago’s Musical Odyssey: “Snow From Yesterday”

Manu Delago, the Grammy-nominated Austrian composer and percussion maestro, is set to unveil his latest album, “Snow From Yesterday,” on February 2nd via One Little Independent Records. This album, a collaboration with the vocal ensemble Mad About Lemon, promises to be a unique blend of profound melodies and innovative concepts.

Drawing inspiration from the ever-changing forms of water, “Snow From Yesterday” is a reflection on life’s journey, transformations, and the connections that bind us across time and space. The album seamlessly weaves together themes of personal experiences, environmental concerns, and historical reflections.

Delago’s signature handpan prowess is the heartbeat of the album, producing emotive and majestic sounds that perfectly complement Mad About Lemon’s harmonious vocals. The opening track, “Modern People,” sets the tone, questioning the significance of modern technology in the face of larger global challenges.

The album also delves into personal narratives. “Little Heritage” juxtaposes timelines, blending samples from Delago’s grandfather’s stories with the voice of his daughter, highlighting the fleeting nature of time and the bonds that transcend generations.

A poignant tribute to the challenges faced by polar bears due to climate change is captured in “Polar Bear.” Delago shares the heart-wrenching tales of polar bears that journeyed from Greenland to Iceland, only to meet tragic ends.

The album’s tracks, such as “Paintings On The Wall,” offer listeners a glimpse into Delago’s personal life, paying homage to his step-father, a painter, and reflecting on the legacy left behind through art.

Instrumental pieces like “Ode To Earth” and “Oxygen” provide moments of introspection, while “Stay Afloat” sheds light on the pressing issue of rising sea levels threatening major cities.

Delago’s exploration of his instrument is evident in “Immersion,” where he introduces listeners to the Zephyr handpan, a new addition to his collection. The track “Slow-Mo Moving River” paints a vivid picture of glaciers, emphasizing their slow yet constant movement.

“Docklands” transports listeners to a bygone era, imagining a bustling Thames River, while also critiquing the remnants of colonialism evident in modern-day London.

The album culminates with its title track, “Snow From Yesterday,” drawing inspiration from the German phrase “Schnee von gestern,” which translates to “water under the bridge.” This track encapsulates the essence of the album, emphasizing the transient nature of life and the beauty of change.

Manu Delago’s illustrious career has seen collaborations with global icons like Björk and Anoushka Shankar. His commitment to sustainability is evident in his ‘ReCycling Tour,’ where he championed eco-friendly practices.

Mad About Lemon, comprising Heidi Erler, Mimi Schmid, and Anna Widauer, adds a unique dimension to the album with their harmonious vocals and experimental approach.

“Snow From Yesterday” promises to be a musical journey that resonates with listeners, reminding them of their place in the vast tapestry of life.

Album credits

Manu Delago – handpans, percussion, synths
Mad About Lemon (Heidi Erler, Mimi Schmid, Anna Widauer) – vocals
Christoph Pepe Auer – clarinets
Dominik Fuss – flugelhorn
Alois Eberl – trombone, bass trumpet
Christina Lachberger – trombone
Simon Teurezbacher – tuba
Clemens Rofner – double bass

Tracklist

1. Modern People
2. Little Heritage
3. Polar Bear
4. Paintings on the Wall
5. Ode to Earth
6. Stay Afloat
7. Immersion
8. Slow-Mo Moving River
9. Oxygen
10. Docklands
11. Snow from Yesterday

Tour dates

Feb 1: Treibhaus, Innsbruck AT
Feb 2: Altes Kino, Landeck AT
Feb 3: Komma, Wörgl AT
Feb 8: Upper Chappel, Sheffield UK
Feb 9: Metronome, Nottingham UK
Feb 10: Philharmonic Music Room, Liverpool UK
Feb 11: Beacon, Bristol UK
Feb 13: Round Chapel, London UK
Feb 28: ARGE, Salzburg AT
Feb 29: Posthof, Linz AT
Mar 1: Kultur im Gugg, Braunau AT
Mar 3: A38, Budapest HU
Mar 4: Konzerthaus, Vienna AT
Mar 8: Bundeskunsthalle, Bonn GER
Mar 12: Burghof, Lörrach GER
Apr 12: Altes Kino, Mels CH
Apr 26: Spielboden, Dornbirn AT
Apr 27: Rathaussaal, Telfs AT
Apr 28: Gustav-Mahler-Saal, Toblach AT
June 28: Kunsthaus, Mürz AT
June 29: Das8, Dobl AT