Jack Manley continues to build a solid catalog of fresh indie rock with songwriting that is heads above the rest.
We caught his live show on November 20th when Jack and his band played at Berlin Under A in NYC.
Jack Manley, a singer-songwriter from Kingston, NY, embarked on a new solo journey in 2023. A prominent figure in the indie rock scene, he returned to NYC to collaborate with childhood friend Billy Pierson, bassist Addy Idol, and eventually drummer Noah Sonenstein to support his solo endeavors. Together with his band, Jack has performed at venues like Berlin in the East Village, showcasing his latest single, “Grow Up,” and generating excitement for his upcoming full-length album, slated for release this winter.
Berlin, with its low, colorful lighting and eclectic decor, proved to be the perfect venue for Jack’s performance. Closing out the night, Jack captivated the audience, seamlessly carrying the energy of the preceding acts. His live vocals were outstanding, and his bandmates’ passionate performance amplified the experience. Mixing unreleased tracks from the forthcoming album with 2024 releases, the hour-and-fifteen-minute set was vibrant and engaging.
The show opened with “Wind in a Kite,” an electrifying introduction to Jack’s artistry. Each song, marked by dynamic chord changes and thoughtful structures, brought fresh excitement and showcased the band’s love for performing. Their emotional connection to the music was evident, telling stories centered on themes of sobriety, adulthood, and love. Highlights included memorable tracks like “Damn Girl,” “Obsessed,” and “Decent.” A powerful cover of The Smiths’ “This Charming Man” had the crowd cheering for more.
The night concluded with “Smack Water,” a single released in February, leaving the audience buzzing with energy. The closing performance proved the band’s ability to maintain their momentum, with a palpable joy radiating from the stage. The crowd left eager for more, making it a truly memorable show.
