For Maori (the indigenous people of New Zealand), Manaia is a supernatural being, a spiritual guardian to frighten away intruders. Traditionally depicted with the head of a bird, the body of a man and the tail of a fish, it represents the balance between sky, earth and sea. We think music can also frighten away intruders, and helps you to take it easy when hard moments arise. Moreover, sky, earth and sea are three usual elements in our lyrics. That's why we choose the name.

Yes, we have played in different clubs of Madrid (Spain) and we like it very much. The most special moments for us are those when we feel strongly "connected" to the audience.

The Internet has given us the means to share our music with the world, and in that way is something really revolutionary. However, independent artists still need some kind of promotion to get heard.

Maybe.

Manaia was born in 2006 as the musical project of singer/guitarist/songwriter Jorge Carrascosa, who previously played in various pop and electronic bands like Café-Olé, Pez Q and Buzzo. Later in 2006 Manaia became a trio with the refreshing addition of María Bejarano, a skilled pianist with a classic training and a very special feeling; and Roberto Aracil, one of the best drummers of the spanish scene whose credits include bands like Café-Olé, Buzzo, Electric Moth, Buenas Noches Rose and Pereza.

Alanis Morissette, The Cure, Depeche Mode, U2, Bob Marley, Jack Johnson, Bic Runga, Portishead, Jorge Drexler, Sobrinus, Adrede, The Prodigy, Led Zeppelin, Soda Stéreo...

Bolonia beach in the city of Cádiz.

Ovation balladeer, Gibson Les Paul, Roland SPD-6, Yamaha AN1x, Kurzweil micropiano, and a Sony Vaio computer with lots of soft synths and FX.