Live Report: Cen Manu on the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions Y&E Series

Cameroonian-Irish Afrobeat artist Cen Manu has rapidly established himself as a force to be reckoned with – founding his own record label, ALL-IN-1 Records, and launching his career with two acclaimed singles 'DORE MIFASO' and 'DANCE'.

After shouting out to all the front line workers, Cen Manu began his high-powered set on The Hot Press Lockdown Sessions Y&E Series with 'DORE MIFASO', a knockout track.

'Surrender', a track that Cen Manu originally released and then decided to take down so it could undergo a rework, followed 'DORE MIFASO' showcasing the Cen's incredible range. He's equally capable of crafting laidback, sultry afrobeats as well as danceable, infectious track.

Rewatch Cen Manu's live session below, and check out next week's schedule of exciting acts.

 

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Thursday, 9 July: Uly
Combining a penchant for old-school soul, jazz and funk, Uly has built a fine reputation as both a solo artist and a collaborator – all while founding his own independent label, andfriends. His highly anticipated second EP, if you were a day, you'd be sunday – songs to go walking to, is out later this month.

Friday, 10 July: CMAT
With her trademark charm, humour and staggering talent, CMAT has established herself as one of the most unique pop artists in the country. Following the release of her ecstatically-received debut single 'Another Day (kfc)', she recently returned with 'Rodney’.

Saturday, 11 July: JEORGE II
Fresh from his 'Cavalier' collaboration with up-and-comer Malaki, Jeorge II is set to take the Dublin hip-hop scene by storm. The young rapper delivers spitfire verses with near surgical precision on his 2019 EP 'The Descent', making him one of the most exciting and unique acts to emerge from the thriving Irish hip-hop community.

Sunday, 12 July: DEA MATRONA
Hailing from Belfast, rock trio Dea Matrona have captured the hearts of audiences across Ireland and beyond with their hard-hitting sound and infectious enthusiasm. As well as finding viral success with their Fleetwood Mac covers, they've released a string of acclaimed original tracks – including their latest single, 'Hard On Yourself'.

Monday, 13 July: JACK O’ROURKE
First coming to prominence with 'Silence', which became an anthem for the Irish marriage equality referendum, Jack O’Rourke went on to release his debut album Dreamcatcher to widespread acclaim – peaking at No.5 in the Irish album charts. The Cork musician has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in Irish music – and he is currently working on his next album, following the release of his critically acclaimed Ivory Towers last year.

Tuesday, 14 July: JESS YOUNG
Singer-songwriter Jess Young uses Celtic elements to expand the eclectic pop sound of the day while staying true to her Irish roots. She is an incredibly exciting emerging artist with a truly singular sound.

Wednesday, 15 July: CIARAN LAVERY
Ciaran Lavery's sophomore record Let Bad In saw him rack up millions of Spotify streams. His language is that of heartbreaking melodies, gentle acoustic guitar and deep, cavernous sonics; he has a sound to get lost in. His latest album Plz stay, bb is a must hear album of 2020.

Thursday, 16 July: JACK RUA
Glam-based pop artist Jack Rua has just released his debut mini-album ‘Narcissus’. Inspired by some of the most ambitious and creative artists of the last fifty years, Jack Rua spent his formative years studying the work of icons such as David Bowie, Madonna, Lady Gaga & Prince; analysing their every move and how they used their art forms to innovate and rebel. He has fast become one of the most compelling young glam pop artists in the country.

Friday, 17 July: JANET DEVLIN
Many will remember Janet Devlin from her storied days as an X-Factor contestant, but that was just the beginning. Devlin's latest concept album Confessional came with a matching book, and saw the singer use her phenomenal voice and Celtic sensibilities to grapple with her demons. Inadvertently finding a new meaning in 2020, the final album single ‘Big Wide World’ brings a positive message of re-embracing the outside world.

Saturday, 18 July: JESSY ROSE
Formerly a member of Hare Squead, Jessy Rose took a break from the group back in 2017 – now, he's back and better than ever. The 23 year-old Dubliner blends R&B and elements of soul to create a tender and touching sound, while his latest solo offering 'Bloom’ was described as a "moving, radio-ready ballad” by Hot Press.

More to be announced on hotpress.com.

Each live showcase of The Y&E Series – supported by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht – will be broadcast live, to Ireland and the world, at 19:30 from the Hot Press Instagram (@hotpressmagazine).