Mansun
Pressing Play
Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce Mansun, the Chester quartet who pushed the boundaries of Britpop with their genre-defying albums, enigmatic lyrics, and bold experimentation.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signaled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: Chester, England
Active years: 1995–2003
Associated genres: Alternative rock, Britpop
Record labels: Sci-Fi Hi-Fi / Regal / Parlophone / Epic
Members: Paul Draper – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards / Dominic Chad – lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals / Stove King – bass / Andie Rathbone – drums
Formation and Early Years
Formed in Chester in 1995 by Paul Draper and Stove King, who bonded over a love of David Bowie and new wave bands like Duran Duran.
Dominic Chad joined as lead guitarist after being spotted playing in a local pub; Andie Rathbone completed the lineup in 1996.
Originally called Manson, they changed their name to Mansun to avoid legal issues with the Charles Manson estate.
Released debut single "Take It Easy Chicken" on their own label, gaining the attention of BBC Radio 1 DJs Steve Lamacq and John Peel.
Rise to Prominence
Signed to Parlophone in 1995, releasing a string of EPs including Skin Up Pin Up and Flourella.
Gained notoriety for their unpredictable image, switching between punk, new romantic, and even women’s clothing.
Released debut album Attack of the Grey Lantern in 1997, which debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and featured singles like "Wide Open Space."
Known for their dramatic live performances and conceptual approach to songwriting.
Commercial Success and Albums
Attack of the Grey Lantern (1997): A critically acclaimed debut album blending lush orchestration with cryptic storytelling. It knocked Blur’s self-titled album off the top spot of the UK chart.
Six (1998): A sprawling, experimental follow-up inspired by literature ranging from Winnie-the-Pooh to 120 Days of Sodom. Singles like "Legacy" and "Being a Girl" showcased their adventurous spirit.
Little Kix (2000): A pivot to a more mainstream sound with tracks like "I Can Only Disappoint U," but its reception was mixed, with tensions emerging within the band.
Kleptomania (2004): A posthumous collection of tracks from their abandoned fourth album, alongside rarities and fan-selected B-sides.
Later Activities and Legacy
Internal conflicts and creative differences led to their split in 2003 while recording their fourth album.
Paul Draper pursued a solo career, releasing Spooky Action in 2017, and remains active in music production.
Vinyl reissues of Attack of the Grey Lantern and Six in the late 2010s reignited interest in their innovative sound.
Mansun’s influence can still be heard in modern alternative rock, with their ambitious sound inspiring a loyal cult following.
Notable Facts
Attack of the Grey Lantern reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart, making Mansun one of the few Britpop acts to debut at the top.
The single "Wide Open Space" spent 25 weeks on the UK Singles Chart, cementing its status as a Britpop classic.
Six featured narration by Doctor Who actor Tom Baker, adding to its offbeat, literary themes.
Defining Lyric
"You'll never get to heaven with a smile on your face from me" — Wide Open Space
Discography
Attack of the Grey Lantern (1997)
Six (1998)
Little Kix (2000)
Kleptomania (2004)
Essential Listening
"Wide Open Space" – A haunting and atmospheric track that became their breakout hit.
"Legacy" – A sprawling epic showcasing their ambition and eclectic influences.
"I Can Only Disappoint U" – Their most successful single, blending heartfelt lyrics with pop hooks.
Why You Should Be Listening to Mansun Now
Mansun’s fearless approach to blending genres, intricate lyricism, and bold experimentation make their music as intriguing today as it was during Britpop’s heyday. Rediscover their unique sound and let their ambition inspire you.
See you on down the road.
