BRING THE NOISE FESTIVAL|LIZ MANN|INTERVIEW

Liz Mann is an electrifying artist on the cutting edge of modern pop music, celebrated for her evocative blend of retro flair and emotional depth. Her fifth release, Different Light, is a high-energy, synth-driven anthem that signals a bold new chapter in her artistic journey. Known for creating music that resonates deeply, Liz combines classic 80s synth-pop influences with a modern edge, crafting sounds that are both nostalgic and refreshingly current.

Inspired by iconic legends like Depeche Mode, The Human League, and Madonna, and adored by fans of artists such as Tame Impala, The Weeknd, and Carly Rae Jepsen, Liz Mann stands out for her boundary-pushing approach to music production. Her shimmering synthesisers, vintage drum beats, and anthem hooks capture the spirit of transformation, inviting listeners to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their destinies with courage and optimism.

Liz’s music isn’t just about sound—it’s about storytelling. Different Light reflects the pivotal moments of change and the courage to rewrite the future, marking a milestone in her evolving sound and bold artistic vision. Following the success of CHERRIES, Liz Mann continues to captivate audiences with her boundary-breaking music, setting the stage for many more electrifying releases ahead.

Could you introduce yourself, what’s your sound, and how did you come together?

Hey! I’m Liz Mann, and this project is my heart in song form. I make indie pop that’s dreamy, nostalgic, and a little cinematic. It’s just me at the core, I write all the songs myself, but I work with an amazing circle of collaborators who help bring the sound to life – think vintage synths, warm guitar lines, and big 80s sounding drums. This all came together pretty organically – I started this project out of necessity due to the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020 when I couldn’t play with my bands. I had so much time on my hands, writing became my escape, my daydream, my way of imagining what it would feel like when nightlife came back to life. One song turned into a little world of its own, and by 2021, I had an album’s worth of material. As the world slowly started opening up again, I began shaping it into something I could share live – with real people, in real rooms. And that’s when it all started to feel real.

What’s happening for you right now? Any new releases, upcoming gigs, or exciting projects in the works?

Right now I’m in that dreamy in-between space – my latest release Different Light just came out, and I’m currently getting ready to release the next single, Cinnamon. It’s got a totally different one to it — still emotional, still a little bit sparkly, but with a little more bite. Behind the scenes, I’ve also been quietly building a full-length album, which is all coming together in its own messy, magical way. I’m hoping to be able to release it on vinyl by the end of the year. I’ve also got some live shows dotted around, so if you’re into moody synths and dramatic feelings, come hang. Next show is the Bring The Noise Festival!

Looking back, how has your music evolved since you first started out? Are there any key moments that shaped your sound or approach?

When I first started out in music, I was deep in the world of guitar music – playing in bands, writing indie songs with big choruses. I honestly never pictured myself taking the route I’m on now, which leans way more into synths, grooves, and textures. But the core of my indie songwriting is still there.

A big turning point for me was when I was living in Leeds as a student. I started going to nights that played soul, disco, and all these songs that had this pure melancholic euphoria feeling I was drawn to. It was such a shift – hearing music that made you want to dance and cry at the same time. That feeling really stuck with me. Then, during lockdown, I finally had the space to experiment and blend those worlds – indie storytelling with shimmering, nostalgic sounds. And somewhere in all of that, my sound found its own little identity.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an independent band, and how have you navigated it?

I think the biggest challenge as an independent artist right now is having to be everything all at once. It’s both the best and worst thing about being an independent artist. It’s not just about writing good songs anymore – it’s building a whole little world around them. You’re your own social media manager, creative director, music video planner, merch packer. On top of that, the cost of everything keeps climbing – recording, touring, visuals, press – it all adds up fast. And trying to stay creative while also juggling a job, a social life, and being a functioning human. It can definitely get intense. I’m still figuring it out day by day, but I try to keep it rooted in the reason I started: telling stories, making beautiful things, and connecting with people who feel the same.

When creating new music, what’s your songwriting and recording process like? Do you have any unique rituals or methods?

It’s a bit chaotic in the best way. I don’t have a strict process – sometimes it starts with a lyric that’s been sitting in my Notes app for months, sometimes it’s a voice memo I recorded in the shower, sometimes it’s just sitting down and seeing what comes out. I’m really driven by feeling, so if something gives me that little spark, I follow it. A lot of my ideas come when I’m walking or romanticising something that probably wasn’t that deep. I like to build a little world around each song – moodboards, playlists, textures – so the sound feels like a full experience, not just a track. When it comes to recording, I usually start with a simple demo, then build it out layer by layer with collaborators. I don’t have any wild studio rituals, but I do always need a good drink to hand, like a good coffee or something stronger. So… maybe that counts?

If you had to describe your upcoming (or latest) release in just three words, what would they be?

Cinematic, Dreamy, Nostaglic.

What made Bring the Noise stand out to you? What excites you most about playing (or being part of) the festival?

Honestly, it was the lineup and the energy of the organisers that really pulled me in. You can just tell when something’s being put together with real heart, and Bring the Noise feels like it’s about more than just the music; it’s about the whole community around the indie music scene. I’m so excited to be part of something that feels this electric. Getting to share a stage with such an incredible mix of artists feels pretty special.

Sheffield has a rich musical history; how do you see your band fitting into or challenging that legacy?

Not being from Sheffield, I wouldn’t dare try and challenge its musical history – it’s iconic for a reason. I’m Manchester-based, which definitely comes with its own musical baggage (the good kind). Honestly, I just feel lucky to soak it all up. I love Sheffield’s scene – there’s so many venues that have such a buzz about them. Every time I’ve played in Sheffield, it’s been a proper good time. The people here are always such a laugh and really welcoming. I’m just happy to be a tiny part of it for a night.

The indie scene is constantly evolving. Where do you see it heading, and how do you hope to contribute to its future?

Now, more than ever, the power is in the hands of indie artists. Labels and the industry don’t have the same control they used to—social media has levelled the playing field in a lot of ways. If people connect with what you’re making, it can find its own way out into the world, no middleman needed. It’s a really exciting time to be independent – you can build your own little universe, on your own terms. I just want to keep making music that feels real, creating spaces where people feel seen, and proving that you don’t need a giant machine behind you to make something that matters.

If one band on the lineup could cover your tracks, whom would you choose?

Ooh, that’s a really tough one!! But I think I’d have to say Holy Youth Movement. I’m really digging what they’re doing at the moment – their sound, their look, the whole thing feels fresh. Plus, they’ve got a couple of synths in the mix too, so I feel like they could put a really interesting spin on a couple of my tracks. I’d be very into hearing what they’d come up with.