Mandrake Handshake Unveils Ethereal Single "En Vol" Ahead of Upcoming Performances
·5 min read
Mandrake Handshake's New Horizon
Psych-rock band Mandrake Handshake is back on the scene with their latest single, “En Vol,” marking a significant return since the release of their debut album, *Earth-Sized Worlds*, last year. This new track isn’t just another addition to their catalog; it's a bold statement that hints at creative evolution.
The fresh cut was shaped by Dom Kirtley (known for his work with Talk Show and Teeth Machine) alongside the band’s own Row Janjuah. The result, as described by the band, is a sonic journey that’s at once disorienting and ethereal. They explain, “‘En Vol’ represents the moment the Mandrake first leaves the earth behind,” capturing that exhilarating feeling of liftoff, when horizons expand beneath newly outstretched wings.
If you lean into its layers, you’ll find that the influence of 90s trip-hop is palpable, especially the silhouette of AIR’s performances. The composition ebbs and flows, blending rich analogue textures before erupting into a more audacious sound. This isn’t merely a track; it’s a spectacle of musical ambition. The imagery of Icarus—untouched by the looming consequences of his flight—serves as a compelling metaphor. It encapsulates the band’s ethereal sense of freedom and exploration, soaring high before the weights of reality catch up.
This release doesn’t just serve as a mark of progression; it also precedes a string of live performances that could offer fans a chance to experience this newfound direction firsthand. Below are details of the shows you won't want to miss—this is a moment to pay attention to as Mandrake Handshake takes their soaring aspirations to the stage.
Upcoming Shows
SEPTEMBER 2026
10 – V11, Rotterdam (NL)
11 – Misty Fields Festival (NL)
18-20 – Worthy Earth Festival, Hampshire (UK) NOVEMBER 2026
10 – Mardis due Grand Palais, Riorges (FR)
11 – Periscope, Lyon (FR)
13 – Ludique, Hasard, Paris (FR)
14 – Le 3 Pieces, Rouen (FR)
Listen to “En Vol” as Mandrake Handshake embarks on this enticing new phase, and keep an eye on their calendar—a blossoming mythos is unfolding.
Brighten The Corners 2025 and The Great Escape 2025 showcase an important pivot in the live music scene. These festivals aren’t just about the artists they feature but about the narratives they spin—the stories of new talent breaking through a crowded marketplace. With performers like Bob Vylan and Mermaid Chunky staking their claim in Ipswich, it’s clear that the push for fresh voices is stronger than ever.
Both events this year highlight the balancing act between nostalgia and innovation. While audiences appreciate familiar faces, there's an undeniable thrill in discovering new sounds. Festival-goers are leaning into genres that defy traditional labels, as evidenced by the eclectic lineups at these celebrations. It raises a compelling question: Are we witnessing the birth of a new era in music where the old guard coexists with a vibrant whirlwind of experimentation?
For anyone involved in the music industry, whether as an artist, promoter, or enthusiast, these festivals serve as a microcosm of broader cultural shifts. They're proving grounds for emerging talent and places where fans connect over both the latest hits and deeper cuts.
What’s striking is how both festivals managed to appeal to varied demographics, pulling in crowds that span generations. This isn't an isolated trend—it signals a growing appetite for diversifying the festival experience. You’ll want to keep an eye on how this influences the business models of festivals going forward. Are they going to lean harder into inclusivity, or will we see a tug-of-war between mainstream acts and underground voices?
One thing is clear: as we look ahead, the landscape of music festivals is set to evolve. With each passing year, the stakes get higher, and the creativity flows freer. If you’re part of this world, consider how you can contribute to the narrative. After all, in a space that thrives on community and shared experiences, your voice could very well make the difference.
