Track Of The Day: Paul Draper - 'Friends Make The Worst Enemies'

As the frontman and the creative force of Mansun, Paul Draper's songs earned his underrated but much-loved band a number of Top 40 hits, and three acclaimed albums. Following a long silence that lasted twelve years, Draper returned this year with his debut solo release EP One, which went straight to number 1 in the UK vinyl charts. Fans will be pleased to hear that a second four track EP is being prepared for release on Kscope Records.

Bringing to mind a bolstered take on the darker, melancholic moods of the 3rd Mansun album 'Little Kix', the lead track 'Friends Make The Worst Enemies' is packed with the sort of epic drama and intriguing melodic brilliance that fans will welcome with open arms. The lyrics seem to be shaped by Draper's experiences in the music industry, where the deceit and backstabbing he suffered during the Mansun years forced him into a self-imposed exile for over a decade. Now, the reinvigorated songwriter has turned the tables and used these experiences to his advantage, roaring back into action with conviction and vengeful intent.

'Friends Make The Worst Enemies' was co-written by Catherine AD aka The Anchoress, whose debut album 'Confessions Of A Romance Novelist' was co-written and co-produced by Draper. He produced EP Two himself at his London studio The Kitchen. His debut solo album is due for release in spring 2017 when he will play his first solo live dates, something Mansun fans have only been able to dream of. As well 'Friends Make The Worst Enemies', the EP will also feature 'Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid', 'Don’t You Wait, It Might Never Come' and an acoustic version of the lead track. It's released on November 25 and will be available as a CD digipack, limited heavyweight clear vinyl, and in digital formats. RW/FF was lucky enough to speak to Paul a few years ago, where he talked about Mansun, The Anchoress and his plans for the future. Read that HERE.