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Single Premiere: Francisco’s Fortune – The Bells

Every time I hear an emerging artist that releases a track that could easily be heard on the radio, I become inspired that this is just another reason why we need to support the underdog. Think of your favourite musical style and there is sure to be a lesser known equivalent; not the same, but they show signs of a competitive calibre. Let’s hope artists like Sydney-based multi-instrumentalist and singer, Manik Mayadunne, aka Francisco’s Fortune, will one day appear next to the greats in Spotify playlists in the ‘Genre and Moods’ category of ‘Pop’ – just one of many outlets it takes for an artist’s reputation to thrive, driven by those who just want to discover something different and yet still suited to their pop palette.

francisco's fortune

Francisco’s Fortune sits comfortably in the genre of alternative-pop-rock – brilliant acoustic and electronic instrumentation, infused with cultural flair.

Francisco’s Fortune is no stranger to Happy since we premiered his debut single Magnetic Lines early last year. Here’s a little spiel  about this musician: after writing and recording songs in his bedroom as a teenager and into university, it was at the beginning of last year that Manik decided to take time away from full-time medicine to pursue a career in music. What’s with these brainy and aspiring medics and musically gifted musicians coming out of Sydney!

Skilled in piano, trumpet and guitar, experienced in the genres of jazz, rock, pop, latin, folk and classical music, and drawing influences from the likes of The Script, Young The Giant, Of Monsters and Men and Coldplay, it’s no wonder Francisco’s Fortune ‘pop’ sound is not that typical of the genre – perhaps it’s the strong influences of his world travels, and his Sri Lankan heritage that thematically draws you into his stories.

The strength of the opening piano chords and hand drumming in The Bells, is quick to set the tone of an uplifting and emotional track. In typical fashion as the drums kick in, a more robust and full sound emerges, quick to gain momentum and brew up an anticipated chorus. The edgy rock undertones begin to shine through behind the gorgeous piano bridge as the track prepares for a crucial climatic end, which features the swift stroking of strings and a surprise ending – you’ll be kicking yourself for not guessing correctly what this could be (I’ve mentioned it throughout this piece, any guesses?).

With Aria-nominated sound engineer and producer, Lachlan Mitchell (The Jezabels, Little Bastard, The Vines), working with Francisco’s Fortune, this debut EP is shaping up to be a delight – beautifully flowing piano and guitar melodies already heard in his first two releases. Keep an eye out for tour dates early this year! Throughout listening to The Bells, all I could think about was: “Now, the sheet music for The Bells is something I’d really love to get my hands on.” 

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