Icelandic artist Máni Orrason explores loneliness and frustration on “Numb”

Released today via Humming Records, Baby Angel is a six song exploration of falling in love and the repercussions of the aftermath, whether it be despair, longing or pure contentment. “Baby Angel is a record about falling in love,” shares Máni of his new collection. “I had to learn to shed a voice of cynicism as a writer first to be able to sing about being in love.”

Orrason’s romance has left a lasting imprint on the Icelandic artist, both creatively and personally. Having only released his second album I Woke Up Waiting in the spring, Orrason has stepped away from the funk infused indie of his recent work to shake up his pop sound with an electronic quirk and modern twist. “I knew I had to write from a more sincere and naive place. For me, Baby Angel is a shift in my worldview, a record of change.”

Introducing that aforementioned sonic change with “Numb”, Orrason harks back to a time of straying, loneliness and intoxication, leaving him weary, consistently hungover and - of course - “Numb”. Stranded and alone in Spain, he was at a loss.

Encapsulating his experience with a DIY, home video aesthetic, the visuals for “Numb” see Orrason, alone, lurking at the poolside and surrounded by indulgences. Like a misanthropic visual tribute to Call Me By Your Name, the video captures a dreamy neon nonchalance between biting lyrics and increasing desperation.

“From writing, to production and to all of the visuals, I'm very proud of this record and what it stands for in my life,” shares Orrason. “After making quite sad, depressive music for a long time, it feels good to add a bit of joy to the world.”