Meet: The Manatees

The Manatees are a mixed-genre band from the seaside town of Southampton and are now living in the busy city of London. They just released their new track ‘Without You’, which came out on the 26th Feb 2025. The song was inspired by the cult classic indie film ‘Submarine’. The iconic Alex Turner wrote the soundtrack, and lead singer Jay resonated with the line “None of this will matter when I’m 38” which features in the track. The song is a self-described “passionate love song”. They have a mixture of musical elements, sounding like indie rock with a pop-y edge. They definitely sound unique- with Jay’s crisp vocals chiming relatable lyrics over the catchy beats.

How to describe The Manatees? Tyler the lead guitarist describes it as, well…just that. “It’s guitar music”, he says – with guitar centring their sound. However, their inspirations stem from Inhaler, Wolf Alice, The Klaxtons, & The Mysterines. Their name came from wanting to associate themselves with the sea, to pay homage to their roots. So, the memorable Manatees came to be.

Their friendship is key to their musical synergy, Tyler beams, “You are literally with your best friends, travelling around, eating McDonald’s every day, drinking warm beer – I mean who doesn’t want that right?”. Hoping to travel and tour across Europe, The Manatees love connecting with fans and playing their music to eager ears. For Tyler, “That’s the biggest payoff – when you can connect with people face-to-face”. Jay adds, “We feel incredibly lucky to be able to do this. The camaraderie within the band is what it’s all about. Spending days in a tiny van together is a really nice bonding experience.”

For aspiring musicians, Jay advises to “Learn how to do things yourself, whether that’s taking your own photos, writing your own songs or producing your own music. Being self-sufficient is key.” He also adds “Never stop releasing music. It starts and ends with you”. They are pleased to have talented bassist Miller, who has taken on the role of photographer/videographer for the band. You can see this in their impressive and creative Instagram feed here.

Tyler’s approach is easier said than done; but great advice nonetheless. He says: “Don’t compare yourself with other people, and if you do, turn that comparison into something positive. What you have is unique and special”.

Their biggest ever headline tour is in their hometown at the venue 1865 check it out. New music is on the way, so keep an eye out and see the tour dates below.

Jay’s song on repeat: Oklou – choke enough

Tyler’s song on repeat: Nii – Penelope

Unique facts: Jay was an extra in the series ‘Masters of the Air’

Tyler used to be obsessed with chickens but now is obsessed with ducks. Fair play Tyler, fair play.

THE MANATEES ‘CONSEQUENCE’ UK TOUR AUTUMN 2025

1st October – Leeds, The Lending Room

2nd October – Glasgow, King Tut’s

3rd October – Newcastle, The Cluny 2

4th October – Manchester, YES (pink room)

8th October – Nottingham, Bodega

9th October – Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach

10th October – Bristol, Exchange