Brisbane-based neo-soul, funk collective Menajerie recently took the covers off their debut EP, 'Selective Deafness'.
A project fans of Hiatus Kaiyote, Moonchild, and Thundercat will be drawn to, Menajerie are led by three vocalists: Gracie Mack (keys), Mel Galletly and Rosa Mack – who are joined by Andrew Fincher (guitar, talk box), Lee Brackenborough (electric bass) and Beau Jorgensen (drums).Menajerie first emerged in 2021, releasing the single 'Time' before a solid 18 months of local shows has honed the group's live presentation.
With their sultry grooves and soulful harmonies, Menajerie are an emerging force whose cosmic funk and elegant R&B, interwoven with enchanting jazz rhythms will enthral those with attentive ears.
"In releasing this first body of work into the world, we wanted to share all facets of the band," shares Menajerie. "The songs traverse heartache, empowerment, frustration, deep self-reflection, and pure, silly joy.
"'Selective Deafness' is a little slice, rich in all our different flavours as a band. It goes from sultry sass to deep and gentle reflection to all out silly joy. It's all served with neo-soul grooves and enriching harmonies and it's delectable."
Stuck
Our EP begins with this hazy dreamscape of 'chorusey' guitar and warm Rhodes hits. It explores the desire to break out of your own toxic patterns before ultimately slipping back into them.Holding Pattern
Thematically continuing from 'Stuck', 'Holding Pattern' builds in frustration and gets more confrontational addressing the habitual relationship pattern that we're trying to break out of.Dat Ass
A silly groove we created a f...boi character for. Andrew on the talkbox singing about a woman's fine ass and needing a place to crash is juxtaposed beautifully by ethereal harmonies from the girls.Is Everything Alright
Led by Melanie, this slow-groove burner seeks clarity from a silent partner. Strings sweepingly accent the probing lyrics.Shape You - Intro
An improvisation by the instrumentalists of Menajerie to set the tone for the next track.
Shape You
Heartbreaking ballad of the EP. Beautifully delivered by Rosa, 'Shape You' slowly adds texture from fragile vocals and acoustic guitar to layered vocal harmonies, rolling drums, sparkling Rhodes and lush strings. This song explores the relationship with the self and how experience has shaped you.Marmalade
Inspired by a raucous night that ended in matching marmalade jar tattoos, this song traverses the complex and beautiful nature of female friendship. It shifts between three sonic zones: slow, stanky grooves, textured displaced rhythms and rising ethereal harmony.Harley
Ode to Gracie's beloved doggo who is the cutest boofin in the whole wide boofin world.Menajerie launch the 'Selective Deafness' EP at Arcana (Brisbane) on 20 October, supported by SOLCHLD and Rina.
