MANUEL

From coast to coast, from calm to chaos, the diverse and dynamic career of Manuel Urgiles shines brightly through MANUEL, one of Maine’s most promising contemporary instrumentalists. Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA with Peruvian roots, Manuel's journey is as rich and varied as his heritage. As a father of two, he carries a mantle of pride, duty, and joy—responsibilities that have both challenged and championed him as a man and musician.

MANUEL’s music is a powerful blend of percussive passion, groove, and blistering shred, encapsulating the essence of Progressive Latin Metal. He proves that ‘soul’ doesn’t necessarily mean ‘singer,’ with his lyrical guitar lines and lightning-fast fingers conveying deep meaning and melodrama, leaving nothing unsaid in his instrumental storytelling.

His 2023 EP, Underneath, mixed and mastered by the esteemed Stacy Parrish (known for his work with Robert Plant, Brandy Carlile, and Elvis Costello), marks a significant milestone early in what promises to be a long and vibrant career. Stacy Parrish, a renowned recording engineer, music producer, musician, and songwriter with six Grammy awards, described Manuel's EP as a true musical revelation. "Manuel's EP is a true musical revelation, defying conventions and pushing boundaries with its genre-defying fusion of heavy metal, Latin rhythms, and surf elements. His guitar prowess is nothing short of awe-inspiring, delivering a sonic experience that leaves a lasting impression."

Following the release of Underneath, Manuel has continued to impress with two powerful singles, “Pandemonium Sunset” and “Fuerza,” both ferocious tracks that take listeners on an epic journey.

“Manuel, “Camino Desconocido” – All instrumental, Manuel Urgulies shows off some serious guitar chops here, with a soaring and piercing metal-rock piece that manages to reel off a full suite of approaches in a tight 4:17. If you’re looking to catch him in the wild, find him playing guitar for Xander Nelson’s band. Good chance they give him a solo or two.” - Portland Phoenix

A composition with very intricate parts and a display of merging multiple genres together. Without a question, the track features guitar parts that can only be done by a musician who has mastered his instrument. Loved how the composition faded out to a clean guitar theme in the end. It sets a nice mood and you kind of want to click that Play button again just because of that.” - RED Rock Magazine