We hear about Clara Mann’s highlights of the year as artist and listener, following the release of debut album ‘Rift’.

We have spent most of this year feeling enchanted by Clara Mann’s debut album ‘Rift’, which was released back in March. ‘Rift’ creates immersive atmospheres through the most restrained arrangements, using each to its maximum potential at just the right moment. Shimmering harmonies, sudden bursts of piano or banjo, sudden upswings of melody, these give shape to the album’s lyrical introspections. Mann has been touring the album throughout the year, headline dates in Spring being followed by supports with Jake Xerxes Fussell, Naima Bock and Youth Lagoon. All that before a string of festival shows, including appearances in Broadside Hacks’ Bob Dylan and Incredible String Band tribute shows, then another set of headline shows including at the Royal Albert Hall’s Elgar Room in September.

At the end of the year, we like to hear from the artists behind some of our favourite releases of those past twelve months. This year we are delighted to be kicking off the series with Clara Mann.

First up, tell us about your 2025.

This was actually a really special year for me. I was thinking the other day that my life, and my relationship with my music, feels quite different to how it did this time last year. I released ‘Rift’, my debut album, in March of this year, and it was like letting something go. I felt able to move on from a lot of anxieties or preoccupations I’d had about myself as a musician, a lot of the self-awareness just sort of fell away – in a good way! I have, more than ever, just felt so unbelievably lucky to be able to make things and make a life around making things. Also, I bought a harmonium.

What is your Album of the Year and why?

I think for me, choosing an album of the year is so much about what actually had a place in my year, what has memories associated with it, as well as what I loved most musically. For both of those, I loved Renny Conti’s self-titled debut album, which had so many good things tied into it for me. I thought it is brave and incredibly direct record. 

What is your Song of the Year why?

My song of the year is ‘Dancing in the Club’ by This is Lorelei which I think is an absolute masterpiece and it is so good it makes me angry. I like that there is one single instrumental hook and that it just repeats, because it is perfect, so why would you write another one?

Favourite live show you’ve seen this year and why? 

Myriam Gendron at Cafe Oto.  A mix of French traditional music and her own compositions – such an amazing presence, such a special venue (which I avoided for years because I knew that I would like it so much that it would become my whole personality and I would become insufferable… I was right, I am now insufferable), such a beautiful show. 

What was your personal highlight of the year as an artist?

Playing my first headline shows has actually been so beautiful, and such a new feeling for me. I can’t pick a favourite (Paris) but it was just so moving to feel people caring about the music, and in those moments on stage I felt more like myself than I ever have done. Also, buying the harmonium. 

What is your favourite thing someone’s said about your music this year?

That it was ‘unsettling.’

…and what is the strangest thing someone’s said?

My Grandad said maybe one day I could be just like Vera Lynn x

What can we look forward to from you in 2026?

More songs!!!!!! More shows. More outfits !!! More jokes.

Do you have a New Year’s Resolution?

Yes, I would like be able to do one single pushup.