Melbourne-based artist Margo Mann (the captivating alter-ego of songwriter Taylah Carroll) has just dropped her remarkable debut LP, 'Love Is A Dog', via [PIAS] Australia. Stepping into a sprawling, cinematic indie-rock space, the 11-track release is anchored by the gorgeous, nostalgic new single and video, 'Drive The Long Way'.
Focusing on the quiet, everyday beauty of sibling connection, 'Drive The Long Way' is a touching ode to her sisters. Penned across two distinct periods of their lives, the track is a promise to slow down, be present, and treasure fleeting moments. As Mann beautifully puts it, “I've been blessed enough in this brief life to already have experienced many shades of love, and sister love has to be among the most unwavering. I question nothing, I require nothing in return. I just adore being around these incredibly special women.”
Diving headfirst into vulnerability and self-reclamation, the wider album was born from a massive leap of faith. After leaving her day job, Mann drained her savings to fly her band out to France for a whirlwind two-week recording stint with renowned producer Burke Reid. The sessions captured an artist navigating massive life changes in real-time, trading stripped-back acoustic elements for a grand, piano-led theatrical flair. Reflecting on the fast-paced studio environment, she notes, “It was an incredibly galvanising and intense experience. This record couldn't have been made any other way.”
Thematically, the record explores everything from personal agency to deep emotional devotion. Mann is completely open about the album's turbulent origins: “'Love Is A Dog' is very raw in places. It was forged from a time of absolute questioning and unravelling. A time where I hadn't quite reassembled myself properly. But equally, it was born out of an attempt at ruthless self-trust.”
To celebrate the milestone, fans can catch Margo Mann performing the entire album with a five-piece band at Melbourne's High Note on Sunday, 22nd November, featuring live poetry and a special guest.
'Love Is A Dog' is officially out in the world, so head to your favourite platform to stream the new release. Don't forget to follow Margo Mann on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to keep up with her journey and future tour dates!
