In a move that has sent shockwaves through the music industry, Noel Gallagher, the legendary Oasis frontman and solo artist, has announced his collaboration with Shaun Ryder, the iconic frontman of Happy Mondays and Black Grape, in a new supergroup named Mantra of the Cosmos. This unexpected pairing has sparked immense interest and anticipation among fans of both Gallagher and Ryder, as well as the wider music community. With Gallagher’s refined rock sensibilities and Ryder’s distinctive, genre-defying style, Mantra of the Cosmos promises to blend together some of the most dynamic elements of British music, drawing from the rich legacies of both musicians while forging a fresh new sound.
The Formation of the Supergroup
The formation of Mantra of the Cosmos was announced through an exclusive press release, followed by a surprise appearance at a press event where both Gallagher and Ryder spoke passionately about their creative synergy. This collaboration came as a surprise to many, given the contrasting musical backgrounds of the two artists. Gallagher is known for his status as a rock icon, having led Oasis to global stardom with his sharp songwriting and powerful guitar-driven sound. On the other hand, Ryder has spent his career pioneering an eclectic blend of dance, rock, and psychedelia, creating some of the most unique and groundbreaking music of the late 80s and 90s.
The supergroup is said to have come about after a casual conversation between Gallagher and Ryder at a mutual friend’s party in 2024. According to Gallagher, the two hit it off immediately, discussing everything from music to philosophy. Ryder, known for his adventurous and often spontaneous approach to music, suggested they form a new band, one that would allow them to stretch their creative boundaries. What started as a light-hearted conversation quickly evolved into a serious collaboration.
“We both have different approaches, but there’s an understanding there,” Gallagher said in an interview about the supergroup’s formation. “Shaun’s a mad genius, and I like the idea of doing something that doesn’t fit into the usual boxes. Mantra of the Cosmos is going to be a celebration of everything we’ve both done—plus a little bit of chaos thrown in for good measure.”
The Sound of Mantra of the Cosmos
Fans of both Gallagher and Ryder have long admired their ability to push boundaries in music, and early indications suggest that Mantra of the Cosmos will continue in that vein. While Gallagher’s solo career and Oasis hits have largely focused on anthemic rock, Mantra of the Cosmos is expected to dive into more experimental territory, blending genres like psych-rock, electronica, and indie.
The band’s first track, which has yet to be released, is rumored to feature an expansive mix of guitars, synthesizers, and hypnotic rhythms. The song is said to showcase Ryder’s unique vocal style—drawling and unpredictable—intertwined with Gallagher’s knack for crafting sweeping, emotional melodies. According to insiders, the song may also feature contributions from several other prominent musicians, with rumors circulating that renowned drummer Zak Starkey, who has worked with The Who and Oasis, is involved in the project.
The collaboration is expected to explore philosophical and spiritual themes, with Ryder and Gallagher both being vocal about their interest in these subjects. Ryder has long been fascinated by the mystical, and his lyrics often reflect his experiences with altered states of consciousness. Gallagher, on the other hand, has a more cerebral approach to songwriting, often dealing with introspective themes and observations on life. Together, they plan to push each other into uncharted territory, blending their contrasting influences to create something that is both accessible and avant-garde.
Early Reactions from the Music Industry
The announcement of Mantra of the Cosmos has been met with excitement, especially considering the impressive careers of both Gallagher and Ryder. Critics have hailed the supergroup as a potential game-changer, with some even speculating that the pairing could revive the spirit of British music that dominated the 1990s. Gallagher, who rose to prominence in the Britpop movement of the 90s, has long been viewed as a figurehead of that era, while Ryder’s contribution to the Madchester scene helped define the sounds of the late 80s and early 90s.
Music journalists have praised the collaboration as a brilliant intersection of two influential but contrasting musical forces. “Gallagher’s anthemic rock paired with Ryder’s experimental vibe could result in something groundbreaking,” said one music critic. “They’re two artists who never play it safe, and when you combine that energy, magic happens.”
Be the first to comment