“A picture is worth a thousand words”—we’ve all heard the saying. At first glance, it might seem that painters and photographers have an unfair advantage over musicians in conveying emotion and narrative. But music, with its unique language, often transcends words entirely. Through their instruments, musicians evoke feelings and mental imagery that no canvas could capture. Joel Manchester’s new single, “Suddenly Violently,” is a vivid testament to music’s expressive power. I use the word “living” deliberately here: a song continues to evolve, both for the artist and the listener, long after its release.
Mental health is a topic that feels more present in our conversations than ever before. Acknowledging it is an essential first step toward acceptance, but every journey is deeply personal and unique. No two experiences are the same. The next step is sharing those experiences honestly and in detail—a challenge that “Suddenly Violently” rises to with remarkable courage and innovation.
Expertly produced by Colin Fowlie of East & Nowhere Songsmiths and featuring Jason Flores’s haunting bowed upright bass, the track is both sonically rich and emotionally raw. The opening lyrics: “Violently these thoughts become clear / Me silently filling up with fear / In spite of every supportive word I hear / I’m still broken beyond love’s repair my dear,” set the tone for a deeply personal portrayal of panic attacks. The music itself mirrors the symptoms: the restless pulse of the bass, the mounting tension, the vulnerability in Manchester’s voice. It’s a window into his experience, but it resonates far beyond. Anyone who has struggled with mental health will find something familiar and validating here.
On my first few listens, I found myself physically reacting—stopped in my tracks by the song’s intensity and beauty. Manchester’s willingness to lay himself bare is both brave and generous. Many would rather stand naked in the street than expose their innermost struggles so publicly.
It’s worth noting that Joel Manchester is also the frontman for Run the River, one of Fredericton’s most beloved rock bands, known for their high-energy and compelling performances. While I’m a fan of his work with the band, this solo effort stands apart as his most profound and affecting work to date. For the first time, I find myself almost apprehensive about hearing a song performed live—unsure how I’ll react, or whether I’ll be able to keep my composure. But I do know this: “Suddenly Violently” will play a part in my own healing process, as it surely will for many others.
Photo Credit: Ollie LeBlanc
Ollie LeBlanc, based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, discovered his love for music in his parents' basement with a box of classic rock LPs. A lifelong fan, his fascination with music has only grown over the past three decades as a musician. Ollie has worn many hats, including bassist, producer, engineer, and photographer. As he matures, his journey has become more about contributing to the musical community and sharing its richness. What better way to give back to the medium that has given him so much!
