Booming with a fresh blend of modern R&B and pop rap, Mang makes a bold return to the spotlight with his new single "HOW WE STARTED" feat. 5am. From the opening beat, the track plunges you into a whirling soundscape that's equally fresh and familiar, matching heart-on-the-sleeve lyricism with an irresistible groove. Striking out most of all at first is the natural chemistry between Mang and 5am. They play off each other naturally, rivalling one another with vastly different energies that complement each other perfectly. Mang's effortless voice finds depth in lyricism, grounding the story of starts and growth that the song aims to tell. 5am offers a different texture, with his bars pumping an aggressive rhythm into the proceedings, ensuring all cylinders are firing and the listener is engaged for the entire journey.
"HOW WE STARTED" is a highlight of production in its own right. Slick without being pretentious, the instrumental blend contemporary R&B warmth with the punchy, melodic flow of pop rap. It's the sort of thing on which both vocalists could shine while also making room for the audience to nod and feel the groove. Here, subtle synths and percussive touches add depth to the record, which remains as captivating on repeat listens as it was on the initial one. Above and beyond the technical brilliance is the fact that the song carries an emotional quality that makes it unforgettable. It's a reflective yet forward-looking anthem that celebrates the small victories often overlooked, while also reminding people of the resilience and creativity that drive personal growth. It's a narrative you will recognize, the thrill, the heartache, and, ultimately, the pride of starting something of value and watching it take off.
"HOW WE STARTED" is a declaration of intention from Mang as an artist who's trying to find his way within the nebulous world of contemporary sounds but doesn't want to lose the context of his expressive storytelling in the process. The song marks a bold new chapter in his burgeoning career, and looks set to appeal to R&B lovers and pop rap fans in equal measure. For all those that appreciate music that seamlessly fuses the genuine with the catchy, the memorable in production, "HOW WE STARTED" should be absolutely checked out. It's an example of how collaborations can not only breathe life into a recording, but into the experience too.