Manchester's Marouli Announce New Album, Share New Single 'Something Serious'

Manchester’s genre-blending ensemble Marouli returns with a fresh sense of momentum, unveiling their vibrant new single ‘Something Serious’ and announcing the release of their anticipated sophomore album, Tall Tales from a Distant Uncle Volume 2.

The Manchester-based five-piece is led by acclaimed composer and musician Graham McCusker, whose career spans session vocal work with the likes of Hans Zimmer, Boy George, and Clean Bandit, as well as original compositions featured across BBC, Netflix, HBO and Apple TV productions. Marouli’s new material showcases the breadth of McCusker’s creative reach, blending rich musical textures with evocative storytelling.

Written largely during McCusker’s recovery from a second battle with cancer, Tall Tales from a Distant Uncle Volume 2 is an imaginative and deeply personal tribute to the art of storytelling, specifically inspired by the humour, heart and candour of Billy Connolly. The album promises lyrical vignettes woven through genre-crossing arrangements, each track delivering what McCusker calls “a wee miniature moment of time and tale being told.”

The first single, ‘Something Serious’, is a playful, groove-driven offering that defies its title. The track channels the layered introspection of Bon Iver, the inventive boldness of David Bowie, and the melodic narrative style of Paul Simon, all underpinned by McCusker’s classical roots and love for artists like J.S. Bach. What emerges is a sound that leans into the emotional intimacy of Elbow while flirting with funk, soul, and gospel traditions.

From the outset, ‘Something Serious’ pulses with movement: swaying drums, intricate basslines, and choppy guitar work reminiscent of Bowie’s ‘Let’s Dance’ era build the foundation. Bright brass and gospel-inspired backing vocals elevate the chorus into something chantable and communal, while a blistering, unexpected guitar solo erupts toward the song’s close - adding a sense of spontaneity to an otherwise tightly composed arrangement.

Formed in 2018, Marouli is the result of long-standing friendships and shared musical ambition. McCusker (vocals/keys) is joined by Alex Hill (keys), Josh Poole (saxophone), Adam Bidgood (trumpet), Alex Dineen (guitar), Jamie Brewster (bass), and Matt Brown (drums). The project was sparked by a collaboration between McCusker and Hill, both music students at the Royal Northern College of Music, and grew as other talented players joined the fold. Drawing from McCusker’s extensive back catalogue, the group set out to rework and reimagine years’ worth of songs with fresh perspective and collective input.

Originally from Paisley, McCusker’s musical upbringing led him from the Junior Royal Conservatoire of Scotland to Manchester, where he trained as both a classical vocalist and composer. Beyond his work with Marouli, he’s become a go-to creative in the film and television industry, contributing music to productions including His Dark Materials (BBC/HBO), The Essex Serpent (Apple TV), The Strays and Bodies (both Netflix). His ability to blend emotive storytelling with genre-defying soundscapes is at the heart of Marouli’s evolving identity.

‘Something Serious’ serves as a fitting introduction to this next chapter—full of colour, confidence, and an unmistakable sense of joy in the craft. With Tall Tales from a Distant Uncle Volume 2 on the horizon, Marouli are set to have a big 2025.