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STOP PRESS:

DAMANEK - 'Making Shore'
3rd ALBUM CD RELEASED 13/01/2023 & VINYL 15/03/2024
3rd ALBUM AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW!
(See ORDERS)
3rd ALBUM SITE LAUNCHED HERE
(See RELEASES)
3rd ALBUM REVIEWS PUBLISHED HERE
(See PRESS)

Digital Copies of DAMANEK & MANNING Demo albums now available on BANDCAMP
Link to the
BANDCAMP ALBUMS


PLEASE 'FOLLOW' GUY ON THE FACEBOOK PAGE FOR LATEST NEWS & INFO


GUY MANNING "TALL STORIES FOR SMALL CHILDREN" Special Limited Edition LP NEWS! ** WE NEED YOUR PLEDGES PLEASE **

Hi Folks, hope you are well...

TSFSC So…a very Happy Birthday to my debut album “Tall Stories for Small Children”, 25 years old in October! It was critically very well received on its launch in 1999
and I think it still maintains that value today.


I recently put out an anonymous online survey asking if those interested in my music would like to own a copy of special limited edition vinyl release.

The response was favourable enough to convince me go ahead and arrange for this edition to be produced.



If you said YES to the online survey, I thank you very much!


So, now we just need you to pledge your money upfront to secure your copy at the substantially
discounted initial price to put towards the production costs, please note that once the cost of production target has been reached, the price will increase to retail.

This is the first time this album has been made available on vinyl, specially remastered by the legendary Sean Timms (Unitopia, Southern Empire), including the full original track list plus other tracks recorded in the same sessions, but not released at the time, to provide you with over 80 minutes of music. (See Background information below)

It’s a double LP on 180gram vinyl and comes with an autographed insert of lyrics, pictures and credits in a single sleeve. It’s a quality product. It will be a limited run, first come first served!

This will be the 2nd release on Wild Thyme Records

I cannot stress enough how important these early pledges are to the project.

Without covering the manufacturing costs, we cannot proceed further and so it really is in your hands now


Here is the pre-order link: https://fairsound.com/.../guy-manning-tall-stories-for.../

I have also been invited to put together a show and perform at this year’s prestigious Summer’s End Festival in October to celebrate this milestone. I will be performing many pieces from the album and am putting together an ‘All Stars’ lineup to help me splendidly deliver the songs!
I do hope to see some of you there

Thank you very much for all the support over the years, much appreciated for sure :)

All the best

Be Safe, Be Well, Be Happy
Guy x

IF THE POSTAGE TO OUTSIDE OF THE UK IS STOPPING YOU PLEDGING, THEN PLEASE CONTACT ME AS I AM LOOKING AT POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

‘Tall Stories for Small Children” 2024 Vinyl campaign - some background:

"I met Andy Tillison (PO90, The Tangent) c.1987 when I used his Leeds studio to record a BBC Radio Leeds session with my band of the time, Kingglass. It was a small place and a little dishevelled, but Andy knew his studio really well and was a good engineer and we got some great results. We kept in touch afterwards and eventually partnered up our equipment and imaginations to record a transitional album together as Gold, Frankincense & Diskdrive/Parallel or Ninety Degrees called “No more travelling chess”.

I knew that I was primarily a songwriter and so I started to build a collection of my own material. I had a very primitive home recording setup built around a small PC (PO90 had used an Atari 1040ST originally) with a single stereo audio sound-card, some recording software (early Steinberg Cubase…as Andy & I had migrated up from their Pro24 offering) and a number of outboard keyboards all loomed via MIDI cables around my small spare room. The mix was captured on a Cassette deck in real time…a real time choreographed event.

I recorded a collection of my pieces, Andy helped out on Drum programs and some keys and so did my old mate Jonathan Barrett on the fretless bass. I was very pleased with the performances, arrangements and sound although a little technically challenged…we did our best! It was 1998!
So, what was I going to do with these now?

In the interim, Andy had signed a more formal PO90 deal with Cyclops Records, via label boss Malcolm Parker.
I approached Malcolm with my tracks, and he gracefully declined….so, as I had access to a CDR burning machine and some disc labels, i created a Version 1 release of my “Tall Stories for Small Children” album and offered it for sale on mail order under artist name ‘Guy Manning’.
The album title had been fixed since I was 15 at school…I had it penned on my rucksack and everything!
I actually sold some copies and so I started work composing the sophomore effort.

One day the phone rang, it was Malcolm. He had been listening more and more to my CDR and it grew on him (huzzah!), he wanted it to come out on Cyclops...BUT, as Cyclops was marketed really as a progressive rock label, he wanted to know if I had few more EPIC numbers that we could use to replace some of the more singer/songwriter pieces…so, with a bit of juggling and rearrangement, Version 2 (the official one) was ready for release.
It was released in October 1999.

Happily, it gained many favourable critical reviews…i was off and running.

So, here we are 25 years and 14 Manning albums later and about to celebrate its birthday with a performance at Summer’s End festival and with a new remastered and expanded special vinyl double album...potentially!"

10th May 2024

Damanek "Making Shore" now available to buy as a double blue vinyl edition!
MSVinylWe are very pleased and proud to announce that our "Making Shore" album is now available to buy as a double blue vinyl edition.

The album also incldues the missing track 'Self Composed' which we left off the CD version. (This piece was awarded to the GoFundMe pledgers only)

The album can be purchased here: GEP store

It is a lovely thing! Please enjoy!

16th March 2024

First release from the new collaborative Project 'The Patchwork Alliance' is now available on BANDCAMP
PAWe are very pleased to announce the release of the first track from The Patchwork Alliance, a collaborative project from Guy and friends

This will be exclusively available via the Guy Manning BANDCAMP site (there are no plans for a physical release)

See STOP PRESS above for BANDCAMP ALBUMS link

Titled 'The Baobab Tree' it features Simon Godfrey on Vocals and Jon Axom on Electric Guitars (See Bandcamp page for all the details).

It has been produced by Sean Timms


Also some more unearthed early MANNING tracks created for the 'Tall Stories...' sessions but never officially released have been remastered and added to the "Unreleased " album up there...

Please support us! x
1st March 2024

PLEASE HELP! Please complete our very short vote/survey - thank you
GUY MANNING “Tall Stories For Small Children”
25th Anniversary Edition on Vinyl


CLOSING DOWN SOON


Would fans of Guy Manning music be interested in buying an augmented vinyl version of his debut album?

We would love to celebrate the fact that its 25 years since its original release with a celebratory vinyl issue!

Our thoughts atm are:
This edition would include the original album augmented by other associated/related pieces
All the tracks would be newly remastered
Comprising a double album housed in a single sleeve with lyric/credits insert and polymer inner sleeves.
The insert will be individually autographed by Guy.
This will be a limited run of say just 100 copies - 1st come, 1st served

We would ask all those interested in this release to pledge upfront for a copy at a discounted price. The album would be sent out to you as soon as it is available

Please note that the RRP price would rise to its regular price once we have covered the initial manufacturing/production costs (for all those that have not pledged already and secured their copy)

So for now, we have a very simple Yes/No answer survey - takes 20secs to complete!
YES = Interested a
nd would pledge
NO = Not interested No turntable, do not collect vinyl etc.

Here is a link to our Voting form:
https://qualtricsxmcjcx528qv.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0wFbcQDqdJbXOFE

To help us accurately, please only complete the survey ONCE

So here is the question:
As an appreciator of Guy Manning music, would you be interested in pledging/owning an augmented vinyl edition of the debut album in celebration of its 25th Birthday?
28th February 2024

NEW "OCULUS OVERTURE" PROMO VIDEO PUBLISHED

CoT

We have launched the latest Promo video from "Making Shore" today

It's the "OCULUS OVERTURE" which is an instrumental prelude to the 4 Act Suite of songs that make up the whole of Part Two of the new album.
Featuring leitmotifs found in the later suite sections and performed by many of the special guests found throughout the new album.

Please Check it out via the RELEASES tab and it is also included in our Damanek YouTube Channel

17th April 2023


GEP LAUNCH NEW ARTISTS BANDCAMP PAGE
GEP Records has launched a new BANDCAMP page for its artists
Digital copies of the albums can be reviewed, bought and downloaded there

Please check it out!


VISIT THE GEP BANDCAMP PAGE

6th March 2023

NEW "CROWN OF THORNS" PROMO VIDEO PUBLISHED

CoT

We have launched the latest Promo video from "Making Shore" today

It's called "Crown Of Thorns (Sea Songs Pt. 2)" and concerns itsself with the erosion of the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland.

Please Check it out via the RELEASES tab and it is also included in our Damanek YouTube Channel

25th January 2023

DAMANEK "MAKING SHORE" HAS BEEN RELEASED

"Well 2023 has got off to a suitably auspicious start on the music front and this new album from Damanek has just raised the bar considerably. ‘Making Shore’ is a momentous achievement, full of sumptuous music and elegant vocals and yet the cautionary tale at its heart is never lost in the process, bravo gentlemen, bravo!"
Martin Hutchinson - ProgRadar

"I cannot emphasise enough how beautiful and enriching the fabric and atmosphere created by this music is. There is energy, liveliness, confidence, and verve, the signature Damanek sound ever expanding its boundaries to capture snapshots of incredible landscapes, emotional and relevant lyrics and mesmerising tales that take the listener to the highest of mountains and under the deep blue sea, driven by exceptional vocals and stellar musicianship. Making Shore is an inspired and captivating listen"
Rick Peuser - The Progressive Aspect

"This is majestic music, bringing together elements which people would not normally consider prog.. There is no desire to sit within any preconceived boxes, instead the music goes where it will, and we are happy to have informative and intelligent guides for the journey at hand. Complex and complicated, almost orchestral in parts, this is never heavy handed but instead there is a lightness which is inviting us into the web. Here we have an album to be enjoyed on the first time of playing, which only takes us deeper each time we investigate further. Indispensable."
Kev Rowland - MLWZ

"Guy Manning and Damanek have always been a force to be reckoned with, but with 'Making Shore', the group takes it up to new heights.  'Oculus" will blow you away -- it did me. In the broad analysis, this is Damanek’s finest album”
Mark Boardman - Reviewer, Sonic Perspectives


"Ultimately, the album "Making Shore" is the best work in Damanek's discography. The band has recorded an extremely versatile, expansive album that progressive rock fans will experience a lot of great emotions with. It is, as I mentioned in the introduction, a real journey into the different directions of the progressive world."
Progresja

“I have just come to the breathless conclusion of my initial listen. Words fail. A lavish musical experience which dazzles with inventiveness, creativity and imagination and deposits you drained but elated on happy shores.  From beginning to end, it is enthralling and captivating. Take the journey, enjoy the ride and savour every twist and turn along the way!”
Rob Fisher - Progressive Aspect and ProgRadar

“It has been a pleasure and an honour to hear the master recordings of what is going to be a major release in both Guy Manning and Damanek's music canon. Prog, Eco, Americana, Funk all feature in an album of lush quality. Like many of the Great Prog albums there are bite sized tracks but also a 30 plus minute epic. Time to get your orders in folks. Album of the year 2023 candidate?”
Bob 'Progbob' Mason - Guest DJ. Between Two Worlds Progressive Rock Show CRMK Radio / Between Two Worlds 3Bs Radio/ Friend of Larne. Prog Alley Radio Frankfurt.

“Messrs Manning, Timms and Arnold have combined together for the third album by Damanek to confirm there is a definite Damanek sound and they don't shy away from clever, interesting and entertaining art. 
Full sophisticated writing, production and allegorical storytelling. The music is wide,  broad and deep enough to keep the listeners attention for a good stretch of time.”
Emma Chrysoprasia - Roebuck Progzilla Radio.

“Explore the magical musical tapestry, brilliantly woven into a spectacular living masterpiece. Please don’t ask how they do  it, but the time taken to finish this amazing album, (thanks to COVID and other hurdles to cross), means that it is a masterpiece as far as I’m concerned.  Good things come to those who wait and, to me, the wait for this simply marvellous album was well, well worth it”
Paul Baker - Radio Tamworth & Hermitage FM


"The time honoured creative source within Damanek is further enhanced by immense musical talent throughout Making Shore. Fit and finish is in-keeping with the two previous albums On Track and In Flight and equally engaging. Making Shore has been meticulously pieced together by all parties involved. Beautifully produced it is a great way to start 2023 music purchasing. Released on January 13th, I would suggest flashing the cash, sitting back and pressing play.
A thumbs up from The Progmeister!
"
Steve Petch - The Progmeister

“I'm always so happy when an artist exceeds my already high expectations.  This album has a fresh energy and a renewed sense of purpose.  After a delicious selection of appetizers, we get to the real meal - Oculus.  What a feast!  Great singing and solid instrumental performances, Damanek's "Making Shore" is a welcome addition to my record collection!”
Phideaux - Composer/Musician

14th January 2023

DAMANEK #3 - BIG THANKS TO OUR GOFUNDME DONORS!!
The new album would not have been completed without the fabulous support (and donations) from our GoFundMe campaign

A huge debt of gratitude to all those that helped us out!

Also, during the time of making the album, we lost a great friend and Damanek supporter, Paul Hanlon.

Paul was an active Prog supporter and we last met up with him in London on the Damanek/Southern Empire tour.

We have dedicated the new album to him...he will be sadly missed x

2nd January 2023

DAMANEK #3 - "MAKING SHORE" NEXT PROMO VIDEO RELEASED
MountThe next promo video for the new album "Making Shore" has now been released and uploaded to our YouTube Channel

Please check it out, subscribe to the channel and help spread the word! Thank you

DAMANEK - YouTube Channel

A MOUNTAIN OF SKY which opens the album

Plus the first full album reviews for "Making Shore" have now been published (See PRESS Tab)
23rd December 2022

DAMANEK #3 - "MAKING SHORE" EARLY SOUNDBYTES

msAlthough still in the pre-release phase, the review copies have started to be sent out...

Here are some of the early comments received back!

Some very nice words






"I cannot emphasise enough how beautiful and enriching the fabric and atmosphere created by this music is. There is energy, liveliness, confidence, and verve, the signature Damanek sound ever expanding its boundaries to capture snapshots of incredible landscapes, emotional and relevant lyrics and mesmerising tales that take the listener to the highest of mountains and under the deep blue sea, driven by exceptional vocals and stellar musicianship. Making Shore is an inspired and captivating listen"
Rock Peuser - The Progressive Aspect

"This is majestic music, bringing together elements which people would not normally consider prog.. There is no desire to sit within any preconceived boxes, instead the music goes where it will, and we are happy to have informative and intelligent guides for the journey at hand. Complex and complicated, almost orchestral in parts, this is never heavy handed but instead there is a lightness which is inviting us into the web. Here we have an album to be enjoyed on the first time of playing, which only takes us deeper each time we investigate further. Indispensable."
Kev Rowland - MLWZ

"Guy Manning and Damanek have always been a force to be reckoned with, but with 'Making Shore', the group takes it up to new heights.  'Oculus" will blow you away -- it did me. In the broad analysis, this is Damanek’s finest album”
Mark Boardman - Reviewer, Sonic Perspectives

“I have just come to the breathless conclusion of my initial listen. Words fail. A lavish musical experience which dazzles with inventiveness, creativity and imagination and deposits you drained but elated on happy shores.  From beginning to end, it is enthralling and captivating. Take the journey, enjoy the ride and savour every twist and turn along the way!”
Rob Fisher - Progressive Aspect and ProgRadar

“It has been a pleasure and an honour to hear the master recordings of what is going to be a major release in both Guy Manning and Damanek's music canon. Prog, Eco, Americana, Funk all feature in an album of lush quality. Like many of the Great Prog albums there are bite sized tracks but also a 30 plus minute epic. Time to get your orders in folks. Album of the year 2023 candidate?”
Bob 'Progbob' Mason - Guest DJ. Between Two Worlds Progressive Rock Show CRMK Radio / Between Two Worlds 3Bs Radio/ Friend of Larne. Prog Alley Radio Frankfurt.

“Messrs Manning, Timms and Arnold have combined together for the third album by Damanek to confirm there is a definite Damanek sound and they don't shy away from clever, interesting and entertaining art. 
Full sophisticated writing, production and allegorical storytelling. The music is wide,  broad and deep enough to keep the listeners attention for a good stretch of time.”
Emma Chrysoprasia - Roebuck Progzilla Radio.

“Explore the magical musical tapestry, brilliantly woven into a spectacular living masterpiece. Please don’t ask how they do  it, but the time taken to finish this amazing album, (thanks to COVID and other hurdles to cross), means that it is a masterpiece as far as I’m concerned.  Good things come to those who wait and, to me, the wait for this simply marvellous album was well, well worth it”
Paul Baker - Radio Tamworth & Hermitage FM


"The time honoured creative source within Damanek is further enhanced by immense musical talent throughout Making Shore. Fit and finish is in-keeping with the two previous albums On Track and In Flight and equally engaging. Making Shore has been meticulously pieced together by all parties involved. Beautifully produced it is a great way to start 2023 music purchasing. Released on January 13th, I would suggest flashing the cash, sitting back and pressing play.
A thumbs up from The Progmeister!
"
Steve Petch - The Progmeister

“I'm always so happy when an artist exceeds my already high expectations.  This album has a fresh energy and a renewed sense of purpose.  After a delicious selection of appetizers, we get to the real meal - Oculus.  What a feast!  Great singing and solid instrumental performances, Damanek's "Making Shore" is a welcome addition to my record collection!”
Phideaux - Composer/Musician

14th December 2022

DAMANEK #3 - "MAKING SHORE" GEP UPDATE



The new Promo video of the track 'AMERICANA' can be viewed via our Damanek YouTube Channel - Why not subscribe?

"AMERICANA" Promo Video link

The album can now be pre-ordered via the GEP Website:
https://gep.co.uk/products/damanek-making-shore-cd
16th November 2022

DAMANEK #3 - "MAKING SHORE" UPDATE (Updated)

MSSo, at long last, the FINAL mixes of the new Damanek album are being sent by Sean to Guy & Marek for review! Huzzah!

First impressions, Sean has done another remarkable production job as it all sounds rather fabulous.

He has also taken on the Mastering of the album too!

** All has now been completed
The CD image has been sent across to GEP
The Artwork is also done...
Promo videos wait in the wings! **




So we just need to arrange the release date, but are aware that getitng CDs pressed these days takes a lot longer due to material shortages, BREXIT levies etc (Sadly)

The album will be divided into 2 parts as we feel that the stylings and subject matter differs dramatically for each part

Section One has the more familiar Damanek 'sound and feel' along with the usual eclectic mixture of Social, Economic and Political musings / discussion.

Section Two houses the large gothic narrative concept piece - "Oculus"
A document laying out the storyline / lyrics / credits will be made available here when the album is released.

In fact, there is material left over and so the plan atm is to make this exclusively available as a reward to all the generous souls that have kindly kickstarted and supported our ongoing GoFundMe campaign..we thank each and every one of you so much for your cash and patience.

So very nearly there ...we are in the Endgame now ... we will update you as more things become firmed up

TTFN

Guy, Marek & Sean

22nd September 2022

"THE PATCHWORK ALLIANCE"

After a long time, there is something new to talk about!

While the 3rd DAMANEK ALBUM "Making Shore" lives with Sean Timms in Adelaide awaiting its completion, Guy has started up a new collaborative Project, to continue his working/sanity...this project is called "The Patchwork Alliance".

This is made up of music/lyrics from Guy with other musical friends helping out and being a part of a collective.

Guy: Keyboards, Acoustic Instruments, Percussion, Bass, Drums, Vocals/BVs

Collaborators/Conspirators so far:
Mr. Simon Godfrey ( Tribe of Names, Tinyfish, Shineback ) has provided fabulous Lead/BVs
Mr. John Southerden has looked after some of the Drums

Mr. Jon Axom ( Genius The Fool ) has given me some lovely electric guitar work
Mr. Kevin Currie has created some great Choral BVs
Ms. Julie King has added her lovely BVs
Mr. Huw Lloyd-Jones - Vocals ( Also Eden )
Mr. Simon Rogers - Guitars ( Also Eden )
Mr. Joe Cairney - Vocals ( Comedy of Errors )

More names to come, soon (Some you may have heard of!)

The Album WIP Title is "Stitched Up"

The Project will be needing a great Producer to help mix/produce the end album
(Suggestions are welcome!)

So ... keep eyes peeled, ears open...back with more updates soon

10th April 2022

DAMANEK EARLY DEMOS
For Damanek Devotees and Completists really...

If you were interested in how the songs for the 2 Damanek albums came about, Guy has released his early version demos on BandCamp i.e. how they were first composed ready to be worked on.

The versions are on the whole from the period before Sean et al were involved with them, but there are some occassional parts from Marek and other contributors (See individual songs for details).

The songs changed of course once Sean got his hands on them and so these are WIP rough examples only and not as sonically well produced (naturally!)

The bandcamp account is here: Guy Manning - Bandcamp
21st July 2021

'MAKING SHORE" NEWS UPDATE
Back into the studios we go.

Sean has been fitting recording sessions into his very busy schedule and now electric guitars and further bass parts have been captured (from various sources)!

This is on the back of all the drum recording, flute and trumpet sessions and me (Ed: Guy), bombarding him with alternate vocal/BV, additional keyboards, acoustic guitar, mandolin, diddlybow and bouzouki tracks to also review/include.

He has lots to do!

We are still 'On Track' for a 2021 release date, but this of course is COVID/Availability permitting.

Many thanks for your patience and support during the last difficult year, it has been much appreciated I can tell you

Love from Damanek xx (Sean, Marek & Guy)
5th June 2021

HAPPY NEW YEAR + NEWS UPDATE

I have been asked about progress on the new Damanek ‘Making Shore’ album as we have been a little quiet of late.

2020 has been truly awful as we all know and it of course has had an effect on the speed of creation...
The album is all written, the drums recorded, my keys/acoustic instruments/vocals are done, Marek’s parts nicely added in and Sean is hard at work on the rest of it.

Whilst I am very happy to report that Sean is getting lots of work into Timmstunes (his day job!), that makes working on other things that he loves, like our album, more difficult to accomodate whilst keeping him sane and supporting of a lovely family life balance too. That balance is so incredibly important.

So, we are giving him the time & space he needs to produce something wonderful once again.
The first re-arrangements of my demos are sounding incredible already, be assured
I have to learn to be patient...it is indeed hard to sit still when i can hear the songs emerging wonderfully, albeit slowly.

Thanks once again to all of you who have so generously donated to our GoFundMe campaign for the album...the funds will be vital once we get to the production stage.

On a related note, our colleague Dan Mash has decided to leave the lineup and concentrate more on his Maschine (band) work and other own projects.

We wish him well with everything he does and I am eagar to hear what comes from him next...
On behalf of Sean, Marek and myself.... we hope you have had a fabulous Xmas time (tricky though it may have been) and we wish for a happier/safer New Year for us all...

Love and best wishes
Guy
Xxx

Sean Timms, Marek Arnold, Guy Manning

2nd January 2021

 
CREATING THE THIRD ALBUM "MAKING SHORE" - WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Hello there - we hope you are all well & safe!

We are asking for your help (Please see GoFundMe Link below)

We need to ensure that our lovely engineer/producer/keys player Sean Timms has a stream of income to be able to give over the time needed to work on/produce the new DAMANEK album, either utilising his own commercial studio (his 'day job') or hiring out another studio (for drums etc).
Sean has always given this time freely before for the last 2 albums, but in these uncertain, unpredictable times, where you take work where you can get it and with us not being able to reach into any deep pockets/reserves right now, we thought we might possibly ask for some fund raising from those that love our music.

Here are links to short clip of Sean starting into album work...
1. Sean at work!

2. Sean working on 'In Deep Blue'


We are putting our collective heads together to see what 'goodies' or incentives we could provide as appreciation for any selfless act. We have some ideas already and will be getting these ready!

We believe 1000% in the new material, just need to capture it and then let you hear it.
In anticipation of some small donation, thank you so very much, if not, then please keep listening to the music!


GoFundMe Campaign

Take care
Guy/Damanek xxx

24th June 2020

THIRD ALBUM "MAKING SHORE" ANNOUNCED


Pic: Luke Machin (Guest), Sean Timms, Dan Mash, Marek Arnold, Brody Green (Guest), Guy Manning (Seated)

Firstly, thanks for a great 2019...your support has, as always, been fabulous!

So it's high time to bring you update with what is happening behind the scenes...

A third DAMANEK album "MAKING SHORE", is being recorded for a planned 2020/2021 release.
This is the working title for it...and as the first two releases 'ON TRACK' and 'IN FLIGHT' both implied movement and travel (by Rail and Air) in their names and so I was leaning to a more Sea/Water-centric title this time (but 2 words again...isn't branding wonderful)

This new set of material sees us once more return to ecological concerns/issues and of course from a narrative empathetic POV, placing the listener in the heart of the story...naturally.

80 odd minutes of initial demos have been written with some quite diverse themes.

Here are some working track names and ideas behind them:

1. A Mountain of Sky (about the solitude and isolation of Mount Everest)
2. A Crown of Thorns (concerned with the decline of the Great Barrier Reef)
3. Back2Back (looks at the Global issue arising from over population)
4. Reflections on Copper (a observation on the debilitation brought through Dementia)
5. In Deep Blue [Sea Songs Part One] (a tale of personal fear overcome!...)
6. Noon Day Candles (an appeal to the World Stage about child hunger and a belief that each and every voice makes a difference in addressing the issue)
7. Self-Composed (an introspective personal look at Guy's own song writing)
8. Americana (narrates the impact of Climate change on a fictional US farm)

9. Oculus - this is an epic, Gothic tale dealing with the perils of inter-dimensional travel ... it is a bit involved, but the story will unfold!!!

Marek, Dan, Sean & I will be returning once again with a supporting cast of superb musicians, some you already know, some new, some well known...have I made that intriguing?

So, no live dates planned as yet, but we looking ahead to 2021/2022 now to get some things booked in.

Related Updates:
Meantime, please check out the latest album by Cyril called "The Way Through" (Cyril is one of Marek's projects for which I provided the concept story line and the lyrics). It has got some great reviews.
Also check out the new Seven Steps to the Green Door album, "The Lie".

Maschine have been recording their third album and so Dan (and Luke Machin) will no doubt be publishing details all about it plus news of their Autumn UK tour with District 97 (look out for details on these dates on Social media).

Work has also started on the third Southern Empire album, the follow up to the fantastically well received "Civilisation" - watch out for news on that too from down under.

So that's it for now.
Please visit the Damanek web site and add some comments to the Guest book and also keep up to date with all things Damanek on the Damanek Facebook page.

We love to hear from you, chat, answer questions etc.

More news soon, when things have progressed.

Btw, I will be this years UK Summers End festival if you are about to say Hi!

Take Care
Guy M

20th September 2019

"IN FLIGHT" TOUR IS OVER! DAMANEK & SOUTHERN EMPIRE

We had a fantastic time performing for you in Europe (With guests Seven Steps to the Green Door - many thanks to them for their support) and then in the UK
The dates were not only very well attended but went prety much like clockwork as the hard preparation work paid off.

8 nights ... and a superb interaction with the audiences every single night.

The Aussies are now safely back home and we are doing the unpacking and set back ups

We will discuss next steps shortly

To everyone who helped make this a glorious success...a HUGE thank you

See you next time

5th December 2018

"IN FLIGHT" ALBUM - IS NOW FINALLY RELEASED

Available to buy right now!

Check out the ORDERS tab
Check out the RELEASES tab
Check out the PRESS tab

The reviews are kind and brilliant so far...

Check out the LISTEN tab
Listen to the opener track 'RAGUSA'

Our thoughts now turn to the impending "not to be missed" LIVE dates

See the LIVE tab!

See you all soon!

Sean, Marek, Dan & Guy

6th November 2018

"IN FLIGHT" ALBUM - FIRST REVIEWS COME IN / PLUS RADIO SHOWS!
So, the launch activities begin. The promo CDs have been out there for a couple of weeks and we hope that the reviewers all take some time to digest IN FLIGHT, it is certainly not a one listen hit!
Guy has done some written interviews and some radio shows too, so check out our PRESS page!
30th September 2018

"IN FLIGHT" ALBUM ON PRE-ORDER NOW & FIRST SAMPLE TO HEAR!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are very pleased to say that Pre-orders have opened on the New album and if you go to the site ORDERS tab, you can use the link directly to the GEP STORE.
To give you a first taste of the new material, we have also uploaded the track "RAGUSA" which actually opens the album, and was the track selected by GEP to be the promo piece for "IN FLIGHT" (it is to be found on the site LISTEN tab)
We hope you will enjoy it!


The CDs have now arrived at Damanek HQ!

7th September 2018

"IN FLIGHT" ALBUM and ALBUM ART REVEAL

revealAhead of "IN FLIGHT" pre-orders day (31st Aug 2018) and the offical release date (5th Oct 2018)..on our Facebook page I am teasing with a slow reveal of the front cover artwork...so thought I would replicate that here too...

 

Here is the full front cover (Revealed)

Plus the official Press release

 

 

 

 


31st August 2018

"IN FLIGHT" ALBUM PROGRESS (Updated again)

The new album is now COMPLETE! Both the Artwork and Audio Master are with GEP.
Official release date is October 5th 2018 and Pre-ordering for it starts 7th September 2018


Last week a Gospel Choir (the Gospo Collective and Jones Commentary) arrived at TimmsTunes studio to record parts for two of the pieces and it sounds fabulous!

g1 So...all sounding very good, vibrant and full of colour...some small balancing tweaks still to be made and then it goes to be mastered later this week. GEP have advised us that it will be released officially in October 2018.

Tony Lythgow has completed the artwork for the CD packaging, keeping the branded look 'n' feel from "On Track" running so that we can create a 'body of work', that has a common element to it.
I will publish a bigger image of the front cover art later in the year...so as to keep suspense up!

The performances from Luke Machin, Antonio Vittozzi, Tzan Niko, Dan Mash, Marek Arnold, the choir, Sean & I are safely tucked away on the Project hard drive along with a guest violin part from Raf Azaria (UPF).



Brody Thomas Green - In Flight Drum Session

14 July 2018

"IN FLIGHT" DAMANEK + SOUTHERN EMPIRE + SEVEN STEPS....
We can now finally reveal our tour plans for Autumn 2018!!!

GEP Presents “Damanek and Southern Empire ‘In Flight’ tour of the U.K. and Europe November/December 2018”

In November 2018, internationally renowned progressive rock bands Damanek and Southern Empire will join forces and embark upon their debut tour of the United Kingdom and Europe.

Damanek, featuring members from three different nations, is the brainchild of visionary multi-instrumentalist / singer-songwriter Guy Manning. The group released their debut album ‘On Track' in early 2017 to critical acclaim appearing in many ‘Best album of 2017’ polls and will release their follow-up album ‘In Flight’ later this year through GEP Records.

Guy Manning, commenting on the upcoming album and tour stated, “Since we played that memorable set at Summers End X Festival in 2016, I have been constantly asked ‘When are you going to play live again?’ and I have always had to say “…as soon as we can”…but now I can say “SOON!” The new album “In Flight” will be ready for the tour and it has some fantastic new pieces on it, which we are keen to perform live along with some of the favorites from ‘On Track’. Should be one hell of a show!”

Southern Empire, hailing from Adelaide, South Australia will also release their second album mid year through GEP.

Led by composer / producer / keyboardist Sean Timms, Southern Empire was formed from the ashes of symphonic prog. band Unitopia in 2014 and have quickly established themselves as one of the premiere live and studio acts of the current prog. era.

“It’s always extremely exciting to release a new album and then take those songs on the road.
I think we have a very strong set of new songs to compliment the older material and we’re really looking forward to bringing our unique blend of ‘prog ’n’ roll’ (as Danny Lopresto, our lead vocalist calls it) to our friends and fans in the U.K. and Europe.” - Sean Timms.

For the European leg of the tour, Damanek and Southern Empire will be joined by special guests / friends Seven Steps to the Green Door.

“It’s great to be back on stage with Damanek two years after our first set at Summers End festival and promoting a brand new album. For the European dates of the tour, my mates in "Seven Steps to the Green Door" will join in for a triple bill of great songs from all the current albums and from our forthcoming new album THE?LIE, which will be released right in time for the tour!
Marek Arnold.

Southern Empire

17/11/18 - HRH PROG Festival, Pwllheli, North Wales.

Damanek, Southern Empire and Seven Steps to the Green Door

Wed 21/11/18 - Bergkeller, Reichenbach, Germany.

Thu 22/11/18 - Spirit of 66, Verviers, Belgium.

Sat 24/11/18 - De Boerderij, Zoetermeer, The Netherlands.

Damanek and Southern Empire

Tue 27/11/18 - The Victoria, Swindon, U.K.


Wed 28/11/18 - The Joiners, Southampton, U.K.

Thu 29/11/18 - The Robin 2, Bilston, U.K.

Fri 30/11/18 - Boston Music Room, Tufnell Park, London, U.K.

Sat 01/12/18 - Classic Rock Society (CRS), Maltby, U.K.

Please note: As joint headliners on the tour, Southern Empire and Damanek will be alternating and mixing up the final slot of each night to allow both bands a chance to play slightly extended sets…however we are not telling who / when!

Damanek: www.damanek.com / www.facebook.com/DamanekBand
Southern Empire: www.southernempireband.com / www.facebook.com/southernempireband
Seven Steps to the Green Door: www.ssttgd.de

20th April 2018

"IN FLIGHT" - Album Progress

Work in earnest has now started on converting the new album demos into the finished product "In Flight".
In time for the planned Autumn tour dates, the album is to be released around Sept 2018 time.

We have reunited most of the wonderful cast that we assembled last time together plus there maybe some other names added...later on...

Guy, Sean, Marek & Dan will be abetted by Luke Machin, Antonio Vittozzi, Thomas Brody Green, Tim Irrgang, Julie King, Kev Currie, David B and the Santucci Horns.

The track list (in best guess running sequence) will be:-

01 Ragusa
02 Skyboat
03 The Crawler

04 Moon-Catcher (Heaven Song Part 2)

05 The Crossing
06 Big Eastern (Parts I-III)


It is sounding very good even at this stage if we do not mind saying so ourselves, so please come back for updates on all thigns DAMANEK as they come in

Very exciting times ahead for us with lots being planned in - watch this space!

18th March 2018

"Big Parade" Promo YouTube Video now available

DAMANEK – BIG PARADE

We are very pleased and proud to announce the publishing of our third promotional video from our debut album, “On Track”.

Once again, it has been created by our fabulous friend Ted Ollikkala


The footage can be found up on our Damanek YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xttPn3wdWxE >.


"So, how do you write an anti-War song, and inspect man's avarice, stupidity and ultimate extinction in song? Well, with humour naturally!

I wanted to deliver a dark message tongue-in-cheek with a jaunty, foot tapping rhythm... done in more of a Vaudeville style than true PROG! (…whatever that is)

When we played Summers End festival in 2016, some of the band members were a tad sceptical about performing
this one live...but I stuck to my guns (no pun intended) and in the end, it turned out to be the most talked about piece that we performed on the day when it came to the reviews!" (Guy)

Music/Lyrics/Arrangement by Guy Manning
Mixed/Produced by Sean Timms
Album Design and Art Direction by Tony Lythgoe
Video Produced by Ted Ollikkala, Singapore

Guy Manning - Mandolin, vocals, keys, percussion
Sean Timms - Keys, banjo, vocals
Marek Arnold - Clarinet
Dan Mash - Bass
Luke Machin - Guitars
Brody Thomas Green - Drums
The Santucci Horns: - Eric 'Tooch' Santucci: Trumpet - Alex Taylor: Trombone


We hope you enjoy it - this was a tricky one to realise!

19th November 2017

ON TRACK - Review Soundbytes

"The level of ambition might make On Track unfocused and overblown. However, Damanek are too skilled to let that happen...this album is rich, disciplined and damn catchy. Rather than being depressing. its handling of dark themes makes it a stirring call to arms" PROG magazine

"this is a really exciting and progressive album, and one that is not afraid to experiment. I think it represents an innovative step forward for the genre." ECLIPSED magazine

"On Track is a highly satisfying album that has a number of outstanding qualities....it unpretentiously contains a number of finely crafted tunes that are accessible, yet are able to hold and maintain a listener's attention. These are sung with genuine passion and played with much skill and panache...I therefore, have no hesitation in recommending this very enjoyable release" DPRP

"This is really greeat stuff! Enjoyable from start to finish, this is an easy recommendation to old and new fans alike"
Jerry Lucky

“On Track” the debut album of Guy Manning’s band Damanek is a wonderful album.You can find some lovely melodies on this album. There are a lot of keyboards on this album and the orchestrations and arrangements are top notch. Nowhere you will find freaky solo’s and ego boost behavior. All the musicians are just playing for the compositions"
ProgVisions

"With music/lyrics written by Guy manning channeled through Timms' masterful production sense, the band breathes unhurried spaciousness into 'ON TRACK' with gorgeous melodic themes and swirling instrumental crosscurrents folding ethnic and jazz motifs into predominant symphonic rock arrangements" Progression Magazine

"I absolutely love the way this album flows in its understated way, the musicianship peerless throughout. The sequencing of the tracks is spot on and Manning's vision as composer, performer and lyricist has never been more perceptive. This is right up there as one of the top ten albums of the year contenders" Background Magazine

"I have listened to it for a few weeks now and at every spin it just grows and grows on you...so dear friends, no time
to waste, go buy this little masterpiece, I promise you won't be disappointed" ProgPlanet

"Guy Manning has as progressive singer-songwriter with a love for narrative lyrics, released a lot of solo albums.
Yet his name is not familiar to everyone. With Damarek, for which he wrote all the music and lyrics, he is on track for a promising career expansion" IO Pages


"One of the most satifying things a music fan can do is make a new discovery.  That happened to me lately as I was given a review copy of Damanek’s debut album, On Track.  Lucky me.  On Track is one of the best releases I’ve heard in what has been a pretty good year for prog releases....On Track has some of the best musicianship of any album I’ve heard in quite some time, and that’s saying quite a bit given the plethora of outstanding progressive rock releases we’ve seen this year and for several years running now.  Overall, the music is a, well-balanced mix of styles, including classic and modern prog, jazz, and various world music styles, tastefully and seamlessly combined.  As debut albums go, this one is a smashing success." Progarchy

"I knew I was going to enjoy this right from the off, and that was indeed immediately the case. Guy has an innate sense of melody, and his songs are always enjoyable on first hearing, with strong arrangements and a feeling that every note is in exactly the right place, played on the right instrument. I can't pick a favourite as all eight songs are simply superb" Kev Rowland (Progressive Archives)

"The music is tight and full of the quality you would expect from the players, but no one dominates in this and it feels like a complete piece of work...it bears playing and playing again" ProgRadar

"I loved this record, without pretention, without artificially complexifying its purpose, has succeeded in giving a youthful stroke to the neo-progressive. The mix jazz / aor / prog is a total success and allows to discover musicians who were already known in other bands and styles. Only half of the songs written by the band are on this <On Track>, so we'regoing to have a new band on track. Next album please!" Koid9 Magazine

"Dark Sun...forms a worthy conclusion for 'on Track'...only rarely has one experienced such a skill, which can unfold itself fully, but never lose sight of the song, just as rarely one has experienced jazz so beautifully" NeckBreaker

"The call to arms comes in many guises. None, I suspect, have come with such sublime clarity of vision or such chilling emotional discernment than the passionately crafted debut album On Track from Damanek....On Track is, to my mind at least, possibly one of the most gracefully compelling protest albums of the 21stCentury so far. Music matches mood, which in turn matches location, which in turn resonates with the sounds and rhythms best suited to the lyrical content of each song. It is a complex and spellbinding set of combinations which unassumingly delivers a provocative, sensitive and timely message for our time. We need to turn things around. We have to get back on track." The Progressive Aspect

"If we know how to take this record for what it is, a sincere and generous pop-prog manifesto, with consistent solos, we have the assurance of having with On Track an album that will be listened to with delight." Big Bang Magazine

"Damanek is like a meeting of the minds.  When I saw the line up, I was absolutely floored.....This music is as classy and sophisticated as you will probably hear this year....Overall, Damanek’s debut is a complete success.  “On Track” is a refined trip down satire lane that I’ve really come to appreciate.  The list of performers is definitely impressive, but it is Guy’s writing skills that shine the most.  This is one debut that prog rock fans will love to devour." PROG MIND

"On Track" is a warm and sympathetic album and the lyrics have a look that you want to embrace. There are numbers beyond dealing with social and economic issues with integrity that are usually related to mother earth and its inhabitants, but there is also room for a children's story speaking to the imagination" ProgWereld

"Damanek is a new example of an excellent debut album that, far from confining itself to a neo-progressive pop-tinted, explores many territories, giving it a special colouring." WAVES

"With " On Track " by DAMANEK with participating musicians, who are part of the "Who Is Who" of the current Prog scene mixes a stylistically surprisingly varied world music album, which is not guaranteed in the scene Wind instruments - predominantly saxophone and clarinet - the prog niche belongs and is no limits." MusicReviews.de

"On Track consists of eight songs from sophisticated arrangements and full of charm that combine perfectly, an impressive technical ability with immortal hooks melodic in successive and different sonic landscapes." Via Nocturna

"Beautifully packaged, well produced music second to none. Press the button on this one guys, it’s a must have!"
The ProgMeister

"...the album is a real treat and will appeal to many by its delicacy, its artistic message and its musicality....do not be shy and buy without hesitation." Profil

"Listen to the whole CD really great, which makes the group Damanek shows the whole world that times are mature and intelligent, played prog rock for discerning listeners not gone into oblivion" MLWZ

"Very inconspicuous but surprisingly freshly sounding album. Proven patents have not been thoughtlessly played again the same or this time from the back, but very ingeniously merged into a fascinating whole. Despite the presence of Mark Arnold, Damanek does not sound like another German progressive band, which is probably due to the equalizer Guy Manning, who is the author of the main vision of the band. These few dozen minutes of very pleasant and captivating music will take you for a moment in a slightly different world and will show you the next face of famous and well-known musicians. May not be the last time. I would definitely recommend." ProgRock.Org.Pl

"Guy Manning holds nothing back on this release and the band assembled musicians is top-notch" Prog Report

8th December 2017

"The Cosmic Score " Promo YouTube Video now available

ltsfDAMANEK – THE COSMIC SCORE
(Heaven Song Part 1)

We are very pleased and proud to announce the publishing of our second promotional video from our debut album, “On Track”.

Once again, it has been created by our fabulous friend Ted Ollikkala and it brings to life the subject matter of the piece perfectly we think.

We had the invaluable help of Nick Magnus on this piece. Nick took the demo and added his own wonderful arranging skills and keyboard performances to it…the end result speaks for itself.

So, the next time you take a look up at the beautiful night sky, please take a moment to think of this song…it may change the way you see things!!

“The Cosmic Score” footage can be found up on our Damanek YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4r84uBiSV_c >.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

13th July 2017

"Long Time, Shadow Falls" Promo YouTube Video now available

ltsfDAMANEK – LONG TIME, SHADOW FALLS

A beautiful new promotional video has been assembled for us by our good friend Ted Ollikkala.

It is hosted on our new DAMANEK YouTube Channel.

You can watch it here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRb-k5GbA-c

We hope you like both the song and the video.

Please watch right to the end as the credits include site links to informational resources to do with the subject matter ie. the decline of African Animals at the hand of Man.

Let's put a stop to this together!

10th June 2017

DAMANEK "On Track" is now available top pre-order from the GEP store

The album is now available to pre-order from the Giant Electric Pea Store : GEP STORE

cds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Track "Long Time, Shadow Falls" from the new album
is also available in PROG Magazine - Issue 76 on the
Cover-mount CD and you can hear it on this site too (via the LISTEN tab)


In PROG Magazine , Issue 77 there is a full review of the album plus a feature with Guy Manning doing a Q & A session - both are also available via our PRESS tab


Please help us to spread the word!

Please let us know what you think of the track...it is the first time anyone has had an opportunity to hear any of the new material!

Your feedback is important to us!

25th May 2017

DAMANEK sign to GEP
ot

GEP Site: published on:
Tuesday, 14 March 2017

www.gep.co.uk

Following an impressive debut show at last year’s Summer’s End festival Damanek (Guy Manning: vocals, keyboards, guitars; Dan Mash: (‘Maschine’) bass; Marek Arnold: (‘Toxic Smile’/’Seven Steps to the Green Door’) saxes & clarinet; and Sean Timms: (‘Southern Empire’/’Unitopia’) keyboards, backing vocals) will release their first album ‘On Track’ with GEP in May 2017.

‘On Track’ is a genre-defying collection of sophisticated songs that manage to combine impressive technical proficiency with catchy hooks and vast soundscapes.

Sean Timms’ sleek production adds to the overall sense
of quality and class on this impressive debut.



se pic

The recording of ‘On Track’ is completed by a stellar list of guest musicians including: 
Brody Thomas Green ('Southern Empire') – drums
Tim Irrgang
 (‘UPF’) – percussion
Antonio Vittozzi ('Soul Secret') – guitars
Luke Machin
 ('Maschine'/’Kiama’/’The Tangent’) – guitars
Stephen Dundon
 ('Molly Bloom') – flute 
Nick Magnus
 – keyboards
Phideaux – vocals
Ulf Reinhardt
 ('Seven Steps to the Green Door') - drums

14th March 2017

ON TRACK - Completed and there's more.... !
OnTrackSo, here's the latest news:

1. The Album is now completed, mixed and mastered!

2. We think it will be released in May 2017 and so the pre-orders should start about a month prior to that date.

3. We will tell you more about our new home / record label etc. as soon as all is finally confirmed and signed off!

OTHER NEWS:

Southern Empire (featuring our own Sean Timms) and Karibow (featuring our Marek Arnold in the live line up) will be touring UK/Europe in the Autumn 2017...so watch out for announcements!!!

11th March 2017

ON TRACK - Progress and Song Information
So, the debut album "On Track" is in the final days of mixing before going off for mastering.
Sean has done a fantastic job of blending all the musicians on it and it sounds fab! (biased)

The artwork has been revamped and brought up to date and also this web site, in preparation for the launch later in the year (more news soon we promise), has now got pages devoted to each of the songs on it.

So, if you are at all interested in my thoughts on each one and some of the origins of them, then the links are now to be found on the RELEASES tab.
I will be adding more details to each page over the next few weeks, so please keep coming back to check these out.

Do let me know what you think!
28th January 2017

DAMANEK - Reviews from Summers End 2016

PROG MAGAZINE

"Two years ago, an under-rehearsed United Progressive Fraternity fell somewhat on their collective arse, so whether Guy manning's debut unveiling of latest project Damanek will suffer a similar fate isn't far from everyone's mind.

Yet buoyed by Southern Empire's Sean Timms and UPF colleague Marek Arnold and backed by Luke Machin, Dan Mash and Henry Rogers, Damanek are excellent from start to finish.

Manning's an engaging and enjoyable wordsmith and his new songs are big on melody and insightful lyricism.

It's a sound that conjures up the funkier, jazz-fusion side of Toto, and is full of fun.

We can't wait for their debut album."


THE PROGRESSIVE ASPECT Site

Damanek (UK/D/AUS)

Jez:
This was an intriguing proposition: Guy Manning’s new outfit with Marek Arnold (seen yesterday with Seven Steps to the Green Door), Sean Timms (Southern Empire, ex-Unitopia) and Dan Mash (Maschine, ex-The Tangent), three of these last seen as part of The United Progressive Fraternity when they played SE in 2014.

No album, no songs released, no expectations?

Well, with the band padded out for this performance by guitarist Luke Machin and drummer Henry Rogers this was a mouthwatering possibility.

The good news is that as a live unit they completely delivered.

The songs, all seemingly written by Manning, continue the ecological bent of UPF but with added political bite which give them more of an edge. As usual Guy was on top form, immediately getting the audience on side and keeping the humour levels high. There was much to recommend in the songs, such as The Big Parade which offered a light-hearted and upbeat veneer for the much darker content.

The interplay between the musicians was top notch, Arnold’s contributions as always sublime and Luke Machin letting rip with a couple of finely judged solos. I await the album with enthusiasm.

Leo:
This was a peculiar but impressive debut from Guy Manning’s new band – a sort of Prog ‘supergroup’ with band members such as Sean Timms (Southern Empire / ex-Unitopia), Marek Arnold (Seven Steps to the Green Door/ Cyril and United Progressive Fraternity), Dan Mash, Luke Machin (both Maschine) and a cracking drummer in Henry Rogers, they had great pedigree.

They performed an interesting mixture of full on Prog with some jazz and folk elements, and even a Vaudevillian anti-war song! Manning’s usual penchant for thought provoking themes in his songs gave us plenty of ecological and political lyrics upon which to ponder.

However, being a completely new band with new songs their set lacked the highs of hearing old favourites, and they admirably kept away from the easy step of filling their set with ‘covers’ of songs from their multitude of other projects. Nevertheless, their set went down well with the crowd who recognized a quality band in development.


FLIGHT OF THE SKYPILOT Site

" ...a first for Summer's End - indeed a first for anywhere, with the debut performance of Damanek, a band fronted by Guy Manning and featuring Sean Timms, Marek Arnold, Henry Rogers, Dan Mash & Luke Machin. No one outside of the band knew what to expect, and we were left in no doubt that the debut album will be a must buy in 2017. "

8th October 2016

DAMANEK go down a storm at Summers End 2016...the PIX are in the Gallery!























Damenek debuted the new album "On Track" to a demanding (in terms of musical proficiency) audience who had neither seen the band before nor heard any of the forthcoming material! A brave (some might say foolhardy) decision.

However, as it turns out, expectations of seeing this new line-up were very high indeed, and the Drill Hall in Chepstow was full to the brim at 2pm on Oct 2nd.

The band performed nearly every song from the album to a vocal, supportive and very very appreciative crowd!

In fact, they played a blinder!
5th October 2016

DAMANEK line-up for Summers End 2016 now revealed...
Background:

Post UPF (United Progressive Fraternity) and the appearance at Summers End X (2014) and short tour, I wanted to establish a new musical venture away from my usual MANNING albums.
I had lots of new, different material written, I just needed the best musicians I could find who would like the pieces enough to join me.

Marek Arnold ('Seven Steps to the Green Door', 'Cyril', 'Toxic Smile') and I had worked both in UPF and of course on several of my own MANNING albums. His sax work is always exemplary! He is also a great producer in his own right. ....plus he is a tasty keys player too.
.
Dan Mash (I knew through 'The Tangent', 'Maschine') and of course, we had worked in UPF together and I was keen to have him on board too if at all possible

So the initial DAMANEK concept was born (DAn / MANning / MarEK)...

Finding the right keyboards player though was going to be perhaps a challenge. Luckily, after meeting Unitopia (as a fan) at Summers End 2010, I have remained friends with both Mark 'Truey' Trueack (which led to UPF) and also with the fabulous Sean Timms

I emailed Sean the demos and he agreed to complete the core formal line-up of Damanek and brought his considerable keyboard and production skills to the unit.

When Stephen Lambe invited me to perform at the 2016 Summers End, my first thought was, "so how am I going to be able to bring a line-up together which can do justice to the album ("On Track") already in production?"
This was going to be like assembling The Avengers or the Magnificent Seven (or Six in this case) !!!
As it turns out, there have been some fortuitous decisions / happy accidents made by Lambsie and Huw Lloyd-Jones which made some of all this a hell of a lot easier for me in the end...

Firstly, 'Seven Steps...' were invited to perform SE on the Saturday...so I knew Marek would be there anyhow! .

Secondly, I contacted Sean and asked him if it would be at all possible that he could get across for it...and to my absolute surprise / delight, he agreed!!

Thirdly, we needed a guitar player of considerable talent. When Dan suggested his colleague Luke Machin ('The Tangent', 'Maschine', 'Kiama') and approached him on my behalf, I was astounded when Luke agreed to also be a part of this show as a Special Guest!

Fourth, we just needed a superb, inventive and quick learning Drummer! I was mulling it over when suddenly there was a line up change at Summers End and Heather Findlay's Band were booked to appear!. 
I have played a number of events where Henry Rogers was drumming (either for DeeExpus or Touchstone) at RosFest 2010, previous Summers Ends and also whilst on tour with Manning) and I was always impressed by the skill and passion in his performances...so I thought, why the hell not ask him?

I am happy to report that Henry has come aboard again as a Special Guest and so (like Marek) will performing twice at this years SE festival!

So that just leaves me letting the side down against the weight of this impressive troupe of musicians..I am going to have to up my game!!

Guy Manning

Summers End 2016  DAMANEK Line-Up:

Guy Manning: Lead Vocals, Acoustic Gtr, Mandolin, Keyboards
Marek Arnold: Saxes, Clarinet, Keyboards
Dan Mash: Bass
Sean Timms: Keyboards, Backing Vocals

Plus Special Guests:

Luke Machin: Electric Guitars
Henry Rogers: Drums

As this international line-up cannot be sustained for more live work (too expensive and geographically challenged)...this is one-off show not to be missed playing nearly all of the new album (to be released Spring 2017)


You will be able to pre-order a copy of the new album at the festival or shortly through this site!
Pre-orders (only) are to exclusively autographed by Guy and at a pre-order price too


10th September 2016

Artwork & Phideaux
coverAntonio Seijas delivered the artwork to make up the Booklet, CD, label and Back plates for "On Track" today and yes, they look very good indeed. Here is the proposed front cover.

I am now assembling the artwork adding in lyrics, credits and all sorts to make up the end package. I have some work to do there!


Finally, I can also reveal that I asked my good friend Phideaux to add his dulcet tones to the track 'Dark Sun' and he gladly obliged adding a splendid dash of class to the offering!

For those not already familiar with Phideaux's work, I have added a link to his website on our LINKS page so that you can check him out.

It is well worth spending some time in his company
30th August 2016

Recording the Drums - Brody Thomas Green
brodyThis week, Sean organised the Drum recordings for the "On Track" album.

In the drum driving stool is Brody Thomas Green (Southern Empire
). Sean reported that the drums sounded "GREAT!!!"

Ideas for the Artwork too are now arriving from Antonio Seijas and they look very good indeed.
We hope to share some with you very soon.

Once into September, we have to start thinking about the LIVE band for Summers End, the setlist and line-up.

The line-up has almost been finalised and we will reveal all nearer the time! Including some surprises and some long distance attendees!!

Also, DAMANEK related, our guest vocalist, DavidB (now living and working in Nigeria on his own musical projects), reports..."I released this on Tuesday: https://soundcloud.com/davidb_online/simi-jamb-question-davidb-refix and it's gaining traction especially after one of the most popular artists over here put it on blast by putting it on his twitter page!"

So please check the track out!
A link to David's website is on our LINKS page.

29th August 2016

Cyril "Paralyzed"
paralyzed Away from DAMANEK activity, but still very relevant, CYRIL (one of Marek's other projects!), released a brand new album called "Paralyzed".

On this one, Guy was asked to supply most of the lyrics.
The resulting album has turned out very well indeed and is already gaining many fantasitc reviews...

We suggest you investigate and buy this immediately!
cyril
8th August 2016

Recording the "Santucci Horns" & Tim Irrgang

Eric "Tooch" SantucciThis week, two important sessions are taking place.

First up, the recording of the "Santucci Horns".
Eric "Tooch" Santucci on Trumpet and Alex Taylor on Trombone.
Mixed in with Marek's unique Saxophones, this forms the basis
for the fabulous Brass parts being brought to life for the "On Track" album.

Later in the week, our old friend and colleague Tim Irrgang will sparkle the recordings with his wealth of Percussive know-how
and wizardry!
Alex Taylor

Also being looked at in conjunction wth the musical
development, is the birth of the Album artwork.

Renowned artist Antonio Seijas is helping us out here.
The Damanek Band logo was the first of his designs,
but now we have seen mock up ideas for the front cover
and a few of the song pages too!


Tim Irrgang


All in all, these things are very exciting indeed!


logo

23rd July 2016

DAMANEK - Updates and more...

The debut album, provisionally called "On Track" is still being recorded as we speak.

Contributors so far are:

Dan Mash - Bass
Guy Manning - Lead / Backing Vocals, Keyboards, Acoustic Instruments, Guitars, E-Bow, Percussion
Marek Arnold - Saxes, Clarinet, Keyboards, SeaBoard
Sean Timms - Keyboards, Banjo

Plus:

Brody Thomas Green Drums (on 1,2,3,4,5,6) [Courtesy of 'Southern Empire']
Tim Irrgang Percussion [Courtesy of 'UPF']
Antonio Vittozzi Guitar (on 1,3,4,5,6,8) [Courtesy of 'Soul Secret']
Luke Machin Guitar (on 2) [Courtesy of 'The Tangent', 'Maschine', 'Kiama']
Stephen Dundon Flute (on 1, 7) [Courtesy of 'Molly Bloom']
Nick Magnus Keyboards (on 3) [Courtesy of 'Nick Magnus']  
Phideaux Vocals (on 8) [Courtesy of 'Phideaux']
Ulf Reinhardt Drums (on 8) [Courtesy of 'Seven Steps to the Green Door']
Chris Catling Guitar (on 4)  
DavidB
Lead Vocals (on 4) & Backing Vocals  
Julie King Backing Vocals  
Kevin Currie Backing Vocals  
The Santucci Horns Eric 'Tooch' Santucci - Trumpet /
Alex Taylor - Trombone
 

With more contributor names still to be added

Band logo and artworks : Antonio Seijas

Tracks are:
1. Nanabohzo and the Rainbow
2. Long Time, Shadow Falls
3. The Cosmic Score (Heaven Song Pt. I)
4. Believer-Redeemer
5. Oil Over Arabia

6..Big Parade
7. Madison Blue
8. Dark Sun

All music/lyrics written by Guy Manning (with arrangement help from Marek, Sean & Dan)
Special arrangement created by Nick Magnus on 'The Cosmic Score'

Thanks to Mark 'Truey' Trueack for lyrical suggestions on 'Dark Sun'


The live line-up is set to play Summers End Festival on Sunday 2nd October 2016  in Chepstow, UK, where this new material will be given a first public airing.

16th July 2016


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