In this episode of The Hardest Part, host Kieron Banerji is joined by singer, songwriter, and producer Jack Garratt for a deeply introspective conversation about his track “Mara” from the album Love, Death & Dancing.

Jack opens up about the emotional and psychological weight that followed his debut album, and how “Mara” became a turning point—a song that helped unlock not just the record, but a new understanding of himself. Written during a time of quiet struggle and self-doubt, “Mara” began as a simple, meditative walk from his kitchen to his garden studio, but unfolded into a profound confrontation with internal voices and anxiety.

Inspired by a Buddhist parable, the song personifies “Mara” as the spirit of self-sabotage and fear—one Jack learns to meet not with resistance, but with compassion. He takes us deep into his writing and production process, describing how a dusty Moog synth, a groove borrowed from Motown, and his own evolving relationship with procrastination shaped the final version.

The episode closes with an exclusive live performance.

Jack's new album 'Pillars' is out August 15th on Cooking Vinyl

Artist: Jack Garratt
Song: “Mara”
Album: Love, Death & Dancing

Host and Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji

Engineers: Max Walker & Chris Goldsmith
Creative Team: Callum Baker, Giovanni Almonte
Recording Location: Thin White Duke Studios, London

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.