Maruja unveils debut album ‘Pain to Power’ with a hardcore sound
Maruja, the dynamic rock band from Manchester, has managed to capture the essence of the current music scene with their debut album “Pain to Power.” Comprised of Harry Wilkinson, Matt Buonaccorsi, Joe Carroll, and Jacob Hayes, Maruja has quickly made a name for themselves with their unique approach to instrumentation and songwriting. Since their humble beginnings and the release of three EPs – “Knocknarea,” “Connla’s Well,” and “Tir na nÓg” – Maruja has been on a non-stop journey of forming, recording, and touring.
Carroll recalls the band’s relentless touring schedule, which began about two and a half years ago and continued with a rigorous four-month European tour towards the end of last year. Following their return, the band dove straight back into the creative process, dedicating themselves to writing and recording the “best ideas” for “Pain to Power” over a two-month period earlier this year. The band spent six days a week in the studio, pushing themselves to the limit to bring their vision to life.
The creative process for the album was a combination of spontaneous jams that evolved into fully-fledged tracks and meticulous songwriting that had been brewing for years. Buonaccorsi notes that while each song on the album may have its own unique sound, they all exist within the cohesive world that Maruja has crafted. “Born to Die,” an integral track on the album, showcases a significant sonic shift and encapsulates many of the core themes and tones present throughout the project. With poignant lyrics like “We are universal spirits / And our kingdom is this Earth,” the song delves deep into existential reflections.
Despite the intricacy of their music, Maruja manages to strike a balance between complexity and accessibility. Their sound, influenced by post-punk, jazz rock, and art rock, creates a melodic and energetic musical blend that captivates listeners. Each track on “Pain to Power” offers a different glimpse into the band’s creative universe, showcasing their versatility and depth as musicians.
Through their dedication to their craft and their unwavering passion for music, Maruja has crafted a debut album that is a testament to their talent and creativity. With “Pain to Power,” the band has solidified their place in the music scene and set the stage for even greater achievements in the future.