GARY DRANOW AND THE MANIC EMOTIONS REVIEWS

SlugMug - Episode #447 – Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions

In this episode, Gary talks about his late-in-life diagnosis of Bipolar 1, which he considers his super power. You’ll hear more about his song-writing process and how he collaborates with musicians all over the globe. Plus, you’ll hear some of his nostalgic stories of falling in love with the guitar in the ’60s, and learn about some of the artists from his youth that inspired him. … Read More

ArtistRack - Gary Dranow – Bodywise

It is fair to say that there is an adventuring spirit within Gary Dranow that is persistently looking for new possibilities and undertaking fresh adventures. The same can be said for the Park City, Utah-based artist’s music and a creative craving that explores, evolves and never stands still. Born on March 10, 1954, in Santa Monica, Gary’s musical journey pretty much began the moment, at the age of 11, he heard “Crossroads” by Cream on the radio. The encounter sparked a realization that he wanted to be a guitarist. That acknowledgment and intent were brought to life the following day when his mother took him to the Ernie Ball guitar shop. Within a year, he had started his first band, The New Invaders, and his musical voyage, like his guitar collection from that first Fender Stratocaster, has continually grown and embraced a wide variety in its adventure… Read More

HighWire Daze - The Sonic Adventures of Gary Dranow & The Manic Emotions

Gary Dranow has experienced a life filled with adventure and intrigue. A young equestrian turned motocross champion, a clothing line entrepreneur turned mortgage broker, a renowned ski instructor, and an academy founder. Gary Dranow has undoubtedly grabbed life with both hands and squeezed a lot out of it. It is something that is reflected in his approach to music, too. He has been a musician such the age of 12, and he now performs with the latest incarnation of his band The Manic Emotions. Now at 70 years young, Gary Dranow continues to create and entertainment with a ton of passion and conviction. Gary Dranow has just released a new EP entitled Never Give Up, and it’s a dynamic collection of songs well worth seeking out. Highwire Daze recently interviewed Gary Dranow to find out more about his sonic artistry, his inspiring history in music, the story of his very own Golden Child, and a whole lot more… Read More

The Ark of Music - Gary Dranow – Never Give Up (single)

Like Dranow’s spectrum of successful endeavors, “Never Give Up” is another green mark on the resume. It’s pure rock and consciously translated feeling; it’s soft-spoken but assertive, reserved but reaching out. If you like music that knows its roots – that seems to know you – Gary Dranow’s latest release will surely and immediately connect. Recommended… Read More

ReviewFix - Gary Dranow – Never Give Up EP Review: A Fun Ride

With age comes experience. Those experiences create stories which define who you are. Gary Dranow puts his years of experience and musicianship on display in a neat little package with his latest EP release, “Never Give Up.” Starting with the title track, Dranow wastes no time in pulling you in with a captivating track. The title track kicks the album off and hits the ground running. A defined bass groove cradles the voice of Gary Dranow, his bold crooning dancing well with the ramblin’ guitar strums. With the way the drums and bass take control of the track you’ll never see the rippin’ guitar solo coming about halfway through the 2-minute mark. After this, the track comes into its own with the instrumental becoming a bit more free-wheeling as the percussions pop and the guitar hits some bold licks… Read More

We Write About Music - Gary Dranow’s “Never Give Up” EP delivers an eclectic sonic journey

In his latest EP, “Never Give Up,” Gary Dranow embarks on a musical adventure that traverses a diverse musical landscape, showcasing his versatility and songwriting mastery. With influences ranging from southern blues and roots to understated ballads, Dranow proves himself to be a true musical chameleon, effortlessly weaving together an eclectic tapestry of sounds and styles. Throughout “Never Give Up,” Dranow proves himself to be a master storyteller, painting vivid lyrical portraits that resonate with authenticity and depth. His lyrics are jam packed with inspiration and hope, offering listeners a sense of comfort and solace in troubled times… Read More

Indie Band Guru - GARY DRANOW IS PROOF TO ‘NEVER GIVE UP’

To follow the exploits of Gary Dranow takes an adventurous mind. The singer/songwriter has been a young equestrian turned motocross champion, a clothing line entrepreneur turned mortgage broker, a renowned ski instructor, and an academy founder. This open goal oriented focus has served him well both in life and music. Gary Dranow allows freedom in his musical exploration as well. No restrictions. He has run the gamut from southern blues and rootsy restraints, to heavy metal onslaughts, and recently a more understated balladry. His sound is totally his own… Read More

The RingMaster Review - Gary Dranow and The Manic Emotions – Never Give Up EP

As proven within previous releases, Dranow’s songwriting is seeded in intimacy and his new EP is no different with the likes of Jimi’s Song giving light to the moment as a kid that Hendrix lit his fires and Shimmering travelling the beauty and subsequent darkness of true romance with Bodywise an equally emotive and captivating proposal. All three songs are individual in their character and presence and all are rich moments of instinctive rock. It is the top and tail of the EP that especially epitomise the richness of Dranow’s songwriting and creativity with the EP’s opening title track an immediately magnetic pull on ears and appetite through Dranow’s guitar caresses and subsequent plaintive tones. Strolling through ears with organic catchiness, the song revels in the multi-flavoured lure of its creator’s sound with influences and personal individuality in firm union… Read More

SAIID ZEIDAN - Black Coal Lung By GARY DRANOW

Throughout the song, we are told the story of communities living near a coal power plant, and dealing with the ill effects of toxic air and pollution. With their blend of country, blues, and folk, the band sheds light on this important issue through emotion-filled lyrics and instrumentation. The rhythm sets an immediately somber tone. The raspy vocals carry the weight of the community’s hardship with sincerity. The voice has a certain grit to it that tugs at your heartstrings. The Manic Emotions band provides a tasteful accompaniment that enhances the song’s message and gives the main power to its soul… Read More

OG MUSIC - Gary Dranow - “Floating Away” ~ Floating gently with the heart’s silent echoes through the depths of friendship and loss!

With Gary’s vocals leading the way and accompanied by a complementary lovely female duet in the chorus and bridge sections along with additional harmonies, the song takes listeners on a heartfelt journey where the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a chance encounter between Gary and his long-lost friend Harold Deblanc at a downtown café. As they sit face to face, Harold opens up about the pain and sorrow he’s endured over the years, particularly following the loss of his fiancée to suicide. The opening lines highlight the passage of time and the weight of unspoken sorrow… Read More

Sono - Ripping, the new Single by Gary Dranow

“Ripping” is far beyond being just a song; It’s a masterpiece. It’s a visceral experience that captures the essence of furious hard rock. If you listen carefully, you can perceive it from the opening guitar riffs to the intense instrumentals. Also, how does it skillfully include Dranow’s powerful vocals. Depth behind, the track demands attention. Its depth takes the listener on a wild journey through a sonic maelstrom. It’s a relentless onslaught of raw power that showcases Dranow’s ability to create music that not only resonates but also reverberates with intensity… Read More

Big Takeover Magazine - Gary Dranow - Bedroom Mentor (self-released)

Here, we see [Gary Dranow] pushing forward into almost metallic realms, raw, abrasive, knife-edge guitars cut a swath driven onwards by pounding beats and depth-charge bass lines. It is the sound of alternative rock looking for, and indeed creating, its own future. But, as soon as you get used to this new, incendiary version of Dranow, he throws in a gorgeously emotive and understated acoustic interlude before continuing with the incendiary salvos, just to remind you that he is not to be second-guessed….. Read More

Less Than 1,000 Followers - Gary Dranow Release Polemical Attack on GOP Failure with the New Single “Chaos”

The song starts with just guitar and powerful rich vocals followed by drums to add to the urgency until the iconic line “Liberty’s Keepers in silence amused” and then the distortion kicks in to underscore the anger and frustration felt by those of watching the chaos in what used to be The Party of Lincoln. The chorus is big and definitely has that huge 80’s arena rock that takes me back to my youth when I’d see bands like Aerosmith, Extreme or The Rolling Stones…. Read More

Dulaxi - Harmonies Of History: Gary Dranow And The Manic Emotions Unleashes “Hadrian’s Wall” – A Sonic Epoch

As I immerse myself in the enchanting soundscape of “Hadrian’s Wall” by Gary Dranow and The Manic Emotions, I find myself transported to a realm where history and melody intertwine. From the very beginning, the song captivates with a mesmerizing start that feels like a collaboration of instruments igniting an anthem. The guitar strings, drum notes, and piano chords harmonize, creating an ethereal atmosphere that sets the stage for the journey ahead…. Read More

Jyla - Astralix Unleashes Electrifying EDM Vibes with “The Rhythm Fills My Soul”

Astralix’s journey into EDM is as unexpected as it is exciting. Gary and Chris, known for their proficiency in blues, rock, and alternative genres, found themselves captivated by the consistent format of EDM songs. Intrigued by the challenge of creating music outside their comfort zone, they embarked on the Astralix project, venturing into uncharted musical territory. “The Rhythm Fills My Soul” serves as the harbinger of Astralix’s audacious venture into EDM. The song, featuring the vocals of the talented Malena, is a sonic celebration of youth, joy, and carefree living. With lyrics like “I’m going downtown, Tonight’s the night for fun, No time for feelin’ down, The party’s just begun,” the track encapsulates the infectious energy of a night out on the town… Read More

AllenPetersonReviews - “Shimmering Serenade: Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions’ Soulful Tale of First Love”

“Shimmering,” a jewel among their creations, unfolds as a deeply personal narrative of Gary’s first romance with Janine during their time at Taft High. Capturing the essence of their meeting, the intoxicating dance of falling in love, and the heart-wrenching separation during their senior year, the song is a poignant coming-of-age tale. Gary bares his vulnerability, and the collaboration with Caspar Aesthetic adds an extraordinary layer of emotional depth. Caspar Aesthetic’s vocal prowess aligns seamlessly with Gary Dranow’s narrative, creating a potent synergy that brings “Shimmering” to life. The track’s complex yet grounding structure, built around acoustic and electric guitars, smooth basslines, and subtly driving drums, elevates it to a standout status on the upcoming album, “Never Give Up.”… Read More

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