Project Context
My grandfather passed away a few nights ago, after suffering with dementia and other ailments for several years. Even before his illness, my grandmother ("Granny") sacrificed her entire life taking care of him. Serving like a dutiful bride. And in these final years of his illness - she's soldiered through, like a slave to his needs and his failing mind. As always, beautiful in her faith and dedication.
The song titles, then, have special meaning...
"Don't Cry"
"All My Tears"
"Remembering You"
"Lose Yourself"
"Among the Angels"
They're especially poignant with the Dementia backstory.
Also...
"Lose Yourself"
"Among the Angels"
"Dance With Me"
This chain of songs tells a hidden story.
First, note the ideas in "Lose Yourself" of surrendering and running with the "Lover of Souls"...
"In the open fields of God's heart"
Next, "Among the Angels" takes us there...
"Did your eyes open like flowers swimming
Into the bright depths of His burning gaze
As He bore you ever higher to where the rainbow starts?"
So "Dance With Me" adopts an interesting new meaning...
"Dance with me oh Lover of My Soul" - there it is again - "Lover of Souls."
This has a dual meaning that Evangelical Christians will naturally understand. "Dance With Me" is from the Old Testement book, "Song of Songs." Christians understand that in heaven they will be reunited with God - they will become the Bride of Christ. It's the ultimate spiritual reunion. So during its regular day-job, this song is a romantic worship song signifying the reunion of heavenly love.
In OUR context though, it also symbolizes "Granny" and "Grandad" meeting again on the other side. For the first time, really. Grandad found faith very late in life. The "Manta Rae" does not carry baggage or burden. So things like age and illness and tears will be wiped away.
So like Eden restored, "Dance With Me" is an anthemic celebration of young lovers - meeting again for the first time - with a fresh start in a holy place, and all eternity to...
"Dance with me oh Lover of My Soul
To the Song of all Songs"
Beautiful. And the epic crescendo this song rides from beginning to end matches the ecstasy of the lyrics too. It's a powerful moment in the "Manta Rae" journey.
I love my Granny dearly, but life circumstances and my own avoidant struggles have kept me estranged from the family in various ways for several years. So "Manta Rae" is a difficult bridge in difficult times. Music can do that.
It delivers a powerful, multi-sensual journey through the deep and wide emotions of loss, grief, longing, suffering, hope, euphoria, and more. It's a ride for anyone seeking catharsis, release, and a safe space to float away and cry it all out.
With love and Benevolence.
~ Jason