Ode to Mars is excited to unveil their newest single under Universal Records, “Manika.” The track was released on March 14, 2024. It just so happens that the Japanese holiday “White Day” — a day typically dedicated to expressing love and appreciation to partners — falls on this date, as well. However, the irony lies in the song’s theme, which revolves around unreciprocated love.
Composed of talented musicians Odilon Reyes and Martin Tan, the band has crafted a heartbreaking track that delves into the emotional turmoil of being used and ultimately forgotten. “Manika” powerfully conveys the sense of being a mere puppet in someone else’s narrative, discarded once one’s purpose has been served. “Parang manika, pinaglaruan mo lang ako. Nag-iba, sa umpisa ka lang nagpakatino. Nagbago ka, o ganyan ka na ba talaga sa simula?”
Ode to Mars, a name that artfully combines Odilon and Martin, continues to evolve their artistry, and their latest release “Manika” is proof of their growth as singers, songwriters, and performers.