All the way from NYC—at least in part—comes a group so unique they’re almost otherworldly. And there’s one thing for sure: once you hear Mantis and the Prayer, you won’t forget who they are. This massive collective of musicians is fronted by singer songwriter, Mantis, who originally had a contract with Matchbox recordings in the UK but gave it all up for love. He settled in Melbourne, found a new line up for the band and the rest is history.

Their original song “Silver Dragon”, which you can stream on their Triple J page is the perfect example of the band’s ethereal sound, which could be described as a hybrid of Bowie, Nick Cave and the darkest moments of an Arcade Fire album. “Comfort Me” takes that same sonority to a whole new level, creating layers of vocal harmony that are like a bellows, slowly breathing life into the song until it nearly bursts. Mantis and the Prayer are: Mantis on vocals and acoustic guitar, Jimi on electric guitar, Oj on bass, Jay on drums, Katrina on keys and vocals, Diem on vocals, Elaine on vocals.

The band takes these original songs and more to the stage at The Espy Basement this Saturday, March 29th for round one in Emergenza Festival Australia. It’s going to be memorable, so don’t miss it!