Musical theatre star Alfie Boe has released a new single, Face Myself, which pays tribute to Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the late bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.
The song, taken from his forthcoming album of the same name, reflects on the Manchester indie and dance scene Boe enjoyed in his teenage years. It includes the line 'good old Mani played it right', which the tenor said was added after hearing of Mounfield's death in November last year at the age of 63.
Boe explained that the lyrics also reference 'dreams are grown in Burnage skies' and 'those Cranwell boys, they sang along', the latter referring to Liam and Noel Gallagher, who grew up in Cranwell Drive in Burnage. He said he met Mani only once and wished he had known him better.
Face Myself, due for release on April 10, will be Boe's first album to feature predominantly original material. The singer, known for his partnership with Michael Ball and four UK number one albums, was a drummer for an indie band in his youth and has previously contributed vocals to The Clint Boon Experience.
Boe will tour the UK in April and May, with tickets currently on sale.
