With more members than you can count on both hands, Mensch are better described as a music collective than a band. Inspired by everything from trip-hop to folk this Lancs band create unique and inspirational music.

The name mensch is inspired by a Yiddish phrase which describes someone who is honorable and trustworthy. The collective liked the philosophy behind the word and use it more as 'a statement of intent' rather than a name for who they are.

It is the unconventional way in which Mensch produce their music which makes them so unique. The song writing process starts with initial ideas being recorded in their own studio. Members of the collective then go down and add their ideas which can take the song in a completely new direction.

Hannah on the violin

A lot of Mensch's music is described as "work in process", only being turned into a finished track when it has evolved fully. Their music makes the most of the collective's vast musical talents. With members playing everything from violin and mandolin to flute and penny whistle, Mensch stand out from other artists. They mix these classic instruments with funky bass grooves and sampled beats to create their signature sound.

It has been said that Mensch are like bands such as Massive Attack, Portishead and Morcheeba but their sound is far too original to make direct comparisons.

Strumming the guitar

Mensch have already released two promotional CDs. 'Goddess' and the most recent 'Miqano'. 'Goddess' featured two tracks. 'The feeder' a mellow instrumental with a film-noir atmosphere and 'Thea' a trip-hop chill out track with deep bass grove and hypnotic acoustics. 'Miqano' is driven by a killer double bass riff and shows off the musicianship in the collective. The song builds to a climatic violin solo which plays out the track. This is followed by 'OK' a lush, folk inspired track.

The collective are currently recording material for their debut album as well as carrying on with their residency at the Green Room in Manchester.