New music video from Marine Manasian

Marine Manasian is an artist of Armenian descent whose developed a unique musical identity where the rich, traditional sounds of the East blend with contemporary Western elements. Born in Yerevan but expatriated at a young age, Marine has transformed the pain of exile into poignant musical compositions, using music as her sanctuary. Her ability to strike a delicate balance while stitching together diverse cultural influences is truly remarkable.

Now Marine is set to drop 1303, a new album that promises to merge oriental traditions with Western electronic and alternative stylings. Her signature style is a beautiful amalgamation of tradition and modernity, the East and the West, all interwoven with her sensational voice, which effectively communicates a range of emotions deeply connected to her homeland’s turbulent history. At the heart of her work lies a profound love for the Armenian language and culture, which she expresses through the poetry of 20th-century Armenian authors. As she aptly puts it, “I have chosen love to guide my steps and my artistic choices.”

Her latest offering, the single titled “Hayastanin,” lifted from the upcoming album, is a stunning glimpse into Marine’s highly original and culture-blending sound. The song opens with Marine’s solo voice, gracefully delivering dynamic melodies carrying Armenian lyricism. As the song unfolds, it bursts to life with a laid-back, rhythmic beat, pulsating basslines and gritty electric guitars that layers of wailing lead tones and rhythmic chokes.

When Marine’s vocals rejoin for the first verse, a lofty atmosphere envelops the listener, guided by the airy percussive strikes and intricate instrumental textures. “Hayastanin” is a mesmeric fusion of alternative rock, imbued with melodic motifs from her Armenian heritage. It sweeps you away into a distant sonic realm, elevated by poignant Eastern instrumental embellishments.

Complementing the single is its cinematic music video written and directed by Alexey Varyakhov, which begins with Marine singing in rocky, arid settings. The video artfully blends scenes of colourfully dressed women dancing with Marine’s impassioned performance, providing a visually engaging counterpart to the song’s stunning sonic journey.

With “Hayastanin,” Marine Manasian showcases her extraordinary ability to bridge cultural gaps through her distinctive musical vision. The result is a hypnotic and highly original sonic experience that invites listeners on a unique journey, guided by the lush sounds of on an East-West collision.

Watch the music video for Hayastanin below