"We are turning into a nation of whimpering slaves to Fear—fear of war, fear of poverty, fear of random terrorism…" - Hunter S. Thompson

And hidden behind the shields of faux-street-swagger, hazy auto-tune and drum machines, and ironic grandeur, musicians are becoming slaves to Fear as well -- fear of using their words, their voices and hands, fear of being laughed at, fear of being rejected.

The Manhattan Cartel [Elinor Arwyn and Aaron Strand] are not afraid.
Combining old and new American sounds of blues, rock, jazz, country and hip-hop, influenced specifically by Lightnin Hopkins, Jimi Hendrix, Dolly Parton, and Eminem, this New York based duo delivers a shamelessly soulful and biting product -- by any means necessary.

Former rivals and former lovers, the pair is bonded by the same loyal tension that make the more traditional and illicit cartels so successful. They invite you to indulge in and enjoy the goods. If what you get is not up to snuff, speak up - they can take it.

"want to win? You better pick a side. Pick your poison and prepare to fight. Throw your bullets at me; I don't mind. Curse my name; just spell it right." -- The Manhattan Cartel