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Willy Mason

Willy Mason (born November 21, 1984) is an singer-songwriter and renowned for his politically charged songwriting that blends , , , and influences with raw, urgent energy. Raised on , , in a musical family—his parents are both singers—he emerged as a distinctive voice in the during the mid-2000s, addressing themes of social injustice, , and personal resilience. Mason's career gained momentum at age 19 with the release of his debut album, Where the Humans Eat (2004), on Conor Oberst's Team Love label; the record featured the breakout single "Oxygen," originally written for a high school class, which became a hit, charting at #23 in the UK and propelling his international profile, particularly in . His follow-up, If the Ocean Gets Rough (2007), expanded on his Americana roots with a mix of acoustic introspection and rock-infused urgency, earning praise for its emotional depth and performances at festivals like . After a period of touring and collaboration—including features on tracks by artists like —Mason returned with (2012), produced by Dan Carey, which marked a shift toward fuller band arrangements and electronic elements while retaining his signature wry lyricism. In the years following, Mason adopted a more reclusive approach, living between the and , before resurfacing with Already Dead (2021), his first album in nine years, released on ; the contemplative record explored deception, digital anonymity, and American societal fractures through dense, art-pop arrangements produced with Noel Heroux. Known for his versatile voice—evoking influences from to cynicism—Mason continues to perform live, blending solo acoustic sets with band-driven shows, and released the single "" in 2025, signaling ongoing evolution in his sound.

Early years

Family background and childhood

Willy Mason was born on November 21, 1984, in . He is the son of professional songwriters Jemima James and Michael Mason, both accomplished musicians whose careers deeply immersed the family in the world of folk and blues music from his earliest years. Jemima James, a performer and staff songwriter in , recorded several albums and performed regularly, often involving her children in musical settings. Michael Mason, a folk musician signed to in his youth, had compositions recorded by artists such as and , and later co-wrote songs with Jemima for the publishing company . The family environment was rich with creative influences, including frequent music gatherings at home where Mason learned instruments like the , , and guitar alongside his parents and brother . These early exposures, beginning in infancy, cultivated his innate connection to songwriting and performance without formal training at first. The parents' dedication to music as a profession meant that records, instruments, and live sessions were everyday elements of household life in their home. Around age five, Mason's family relocated from the area to West Tisbury on , , seeking a quieter, rural existence on the island. This move to the pastoral setting of the Vineyard, with its expansive forests, beaches, and farmlands, marked a significant shift toward a simpler away from urban bustle. The island's from mainland culture allowed Mason to engage deeply in outdoor exploration during his childhood, such as running through the State Forest and enjoying the natural commons, experiences that instilled a profound respect for and unadorned living. These formative years amid nature's rhythms helped shape his early worldview, emphasizing community, , and the beauty of the uncomplicated.

Education and early musical interests

Mason grew up in , on , where his family relocated during his elementary school years, and he attended local schools in the area, including West Tisbury Elementary School. He continued his education at , graduating in 2003. During this period, the island's close-knit community provided a supportive environment for his developing interests, though formal academic pursuits beyond high school were not a focus, as he opted against to prioritize music. Mason's early musical interests were deeply shaped by his family's heritage, with parents Jemima James and Michael Mason—both performers—fostering an environment rich in live music and songwriting. Largely self-taught, he began learning multiple instruments around age 10, including , , , , and guitar, through informal practice and family encouragement on the island. His first songwriting effort came shortly after, at age 10 or 11, inspired by watching a local perform at Wintertide Coffeehouse; this sparked a lifelong passion for composing socially conscious lyrics and melodies. By grade school, he had formed a in the style of , rehearsing in a basement. In during the late , Mason co-founded the band Keep Thinking with friends Seb Keefe and Matt Rosenthal, performing original rock and sets a couple of times a month at local venues like Wintertide as part of the island's burgeoning teen music scene. He continued this trajectory through high school, joining other amateur local bands and contributing to school music activities, such as writing "Oxygen"—his first widely appreciated song—for a class. These experiences honed his skills in performance and collaboration, blending roots with influences from artists like Nirvana. Following his 2003 graduation, Mason dedicated himself fully to music, recording a rudimentary tape in photographer Simon's living room that captured his raw style; the tracks aired on the local radio station WMVY, securing him initial amateur gigs around and setting the stage for his transition to . This pre-professional phase emphasized self-directed experimentation, solidifying the introspective and activist themes that would define his later work.

Musical career

Debut and breakthrough (2004–2006)

In 2004, Willy Mason signed with Team Love Records, the independent label founded by of Bright Eyes, marking his entry into the professional music industry. This deal followed Mason's relocation to , where he had been performing in small venues and building a following through informal gigs. Shortly after, he released his debut EP, Untitled 5-Song EP (also known as G-Ma's Basement), on the G-Ma's Basement label in August 2004, featuring raw acoustic tracks like "Oxygen" and "Hard Hand to Hold" that showcased his early folk influences. Mason's breakthrough came with his debut studio album, , released in October 2004 in the United States via Team Love Records and in February 2005 in the United Kingdom through . Recorded in Catskill, , earlier that year with minimal production emphasizing lo-fi acoustics, guitars, and Mason's gravelly vocals, the album blended , , and introspective songwriting. Key tracks such as "Oxygen," with its urgent plea for environmental awareness, and "Fear No Pain" highlighted his socially conscious lyrics and mature delivery, drawing comparisons to early . Critics praised the album's authenticity and emotional depth; described it as a "refreshingly unpretentious" folk-blues effort, while lauded its melodic simplicity and standout opener "Gotta Keep Moving." Mason's rising profile led to a notable performance at the on June 24, 2005, where he played the Stage to a receptive audience, solidifying his presence in the UK indie scene. The singles "Oxygen" and "So Long" from the album achieved commercial success, peaking at No. 23 and No. 45 on the , respectively, in early 2005. To promote the album, Mason embarked on extensive early tours across the and , opening for acts like and in 2004–2005, and later in 2006, which exposed him to larger audiences and amplified media coverage. This period established his folk-rock persona as a thoughtful, roots-oriented artist addressing themes of alienation and social issues, earning features in outlets like and that highlighted his precocious talent.

Established albums and collaborations (2007–2011)

In 2006, Willy Mason released the transitional Scraps EP on , featuring tracks like "Live It Up" and a live version of "Fear No Pain" with the , which bridged his debut album's raw style toward a more band-oriented sound. This set the stage for his sophomore album, If the Ocean Gets Rough, released on March 5, 2007, via in the UK. Produced by Mason alongside collaborators including of The National, the album adopted a shinier, crisper production compared to his debut, incorporating fuller band arrangements with , , and subtle electronic elements while retaining acoustic roots. Thematically, it explored personal resilience amid societal disillusionment, with songs like "Gotta Keep Walking" and "We Can Be Strong" evoking the archetype of the wandering grappling with isolation and hope. The lead single "Save Myself" peaked at No. 42 on the , marking Mason's highest charting release to date and highlighting his growing commercial presence. Critics praised the album for its maturation, noting how Mason's songwriting had evolved into more nuanced narratives of quiet desperation and redemption, building on the fragile simplicity of his earlier work without sacrificing emotional depth. Reviews in outlets like and commended tracks such as "Riptide" for their uplifting melodies and banjo-driven folk energy, positioning If the Ocean Gets Rough as a consolidation of Mason's folk-rock identity with broader appeal. That same year, Mason expanded his reach through a vocal contribution to "Battle Scars" on The Chemical Brothers' album We Are the Night, released July 2, 2007, on Freestyle Dust/Virgin. Co-written by Mason, the track featured his distinctive, gravelly delivery over the duo's electronic beats and piano by Martin Duffy, blending folk introspection with dancefloor urgency. This unlikely pairing introduced Mason to electronic music audiences, broadening his fanbase beyond indie folk circles and demonstrating his versatility in high-profile contexts. Mason's collaborative momentum continued in 2010 with guest vocals on Hawk, the third album by Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan, released August 23 on V2 Records. He provided harmonies on tracks 5 ("Time of the Season") and 11 ("No Place to Fall," a Townes Van Zandt cover), contributing his weathered timbre to the duo's atmospheric folk-noir soundscapes and adding emotional layers to their duet-focused arrangements. In 2011, Mason featured on "No Room for Doubt" from Lianne La Havas's debut album Is Your Love Big Enough?, recorded that year and released in 2012 on Warner Bros. Records, where his raw vocals complemented La Havas's soulful guitar work and introspective lyrics on themes of doubt and connection. These partnerships underscored Mason's role as a sought-after collaborator, enhancing his reputation for authentic, genre-blending contributions during a period of stylistic refinement.

Carry On and mid-career touring (2012–2020)

In 2012, Willy Mason signed with , a imprint, marking a shift to a major label for his third studio album. Carry On was released on December 3, 2012, in the UK, featuring 11 tracks that blended his folk roots with expanded sonic elements like subtle synths and fuller arrangements. The album explored themes of resilience and perseverance, evident in songs like the title track "Carry On," which urges persistence amid hardship, and "Talk Me Down," a reflective piece on emotional endurance. Critics praised its maturity, with noting Mason's improved vocals and lyrical depth, calling it a "solid album" that showcased his evolution. BBC Music highlighted its fresh dimensions after a five-year gap, appreciating the balance of introspection and subtle optimism. Following the album's release, Mason embarked on extensive touring to promote Carry On, including support slots for across the in late 2012 and into 2013. He also joined for their tour stops in in October 2012 and select North American dates in 2013, exposing his music to larger audiences. In February 2013, Mason recorded a live session with producer for Upstairs at United Vol. 7, an all-analog EP capturing intimate performances of tracks like "Oxygen" and new material, released as a limited-edition vinyl for on April 20, 2013. This collaboration emphasized Mason's raw, unpolished live energy, honing his stage presence during a transitional phase. By September 2015, Mason participated in the Australian premiere of A State of Grace: The Music of Tim and , a touring series featuring an ensemble cast including and . The project reinterpreted Buckley songs in a collaborative format, with Mason delivering acoustic renditions such as Tim Buckley's "Once I Was" across dates in , , and . This thematic tour allowed Mason to explore interpretive performance styles outside his solo catalog. Throughout the 2012–2020 period, Mason maintained active touring, blending headline shows in small venues with support roles for established acts, which helped refine his live sound through consistent road experience. He performed alongside artists such as , , and others in and circuits, prioritizing dynamic band interplay and audience connection to evolve his stage delivery. This mid-career focus on live work solidified his reputation as a compelling performer during a time of label transition and creative exploration.

Recent releases and activities (2021–present)

In March 2021, Willy Mason announced his fourth studio album, Already Dead, marking his first full-length release in nine years, set for August 6 via . The , "Youth On A Spit," was released on March 29, 2021, accompanied by a video directed by Noel Heroux. The track explores the struggle for personal freedom and amid an advertising-driven culture, with its —"you can't kill me, I'm already dead"—symbolizing liberation through disillusionment and resilience. Critics praised the single as one of Mason's heaviest efforts to date, highlighting its dark, rock-infused energy as a strong album opener that stretched beyond his folk roots. On September 12, 2025, Mason released the single "" via Grandma's Basement/, a jangling indie-folk track that captures a gleeful journey into the unknown. Lyrically, it emphasizes themes of through the of , evoking and unburdened . In October 2025, a limited-edition featuring the single alongside three exclusive unreleased tracks was announced and released. The digital release coincided with promotional efforts tied to Mason's ongoing tour schedule. That same month, Mason kicked off a North American tour as support for , beginning at in Atlanta, Georgia, and running through October 13 at The Wiltern in . The 15-date run showcased his evolving live performances alongside the British rock band. Following this, Mason embarked on a European headlining tour from October 21 to November 25, 2025, with key stops including Village Underground in on November 15 and Marine Theatre in on November 9. As of November 16, 2025, the tour continued with dates through November 25 in locations including and . Since 2020, Mason has increased his touring frequency across and , building on mid-career momentum to refine a more dynamic live sound with his band, including drummer Charlotte Anne Dole. Notable 2025 performances include a small on October 3 at , where he raised attention for a state white pine cutting plan, blending with environmental .

Musical style and influences

Core style elements

Willy Mason's music is characterized by a blend of , and indie elements, often driven by arrangements that emphasize raw, unpolished energy. His debut album Where the Humans Eat (2004) features lo-fi blues-folk structures with minimal instrumentation, such as the one-note in "Oxygen," creating an intimate, roots-oriented sound rooted in traditional Americana. Later works incorporate urgent and blues influences, blending pop accessibility with folk to maintain a protest-folk vibe, as heard in the equal parts pop, , folk, and blues of If the Ocean Gets Rough (2007). Lyrically, Mason's songs revolve around recurring themes of , , personal struggle, and human connection, delivered through narrative-driven storytelling that critiques societal issues. Tracks like "What Is This" exemplify this with pointed observations on environmental decay—"Evergreens are dying / Are they even trying?"—and broader inequities in and , reflecting a socially conscious tradition. Similarly, "Save Myself" from If the Ocean Gets Rough (2007) explores and emotional amid relational struggles, underscoring themes of and interpersonal dynamics. These motifs appear consistently across his catalog, often drawing from close observations of American identity and community erosion. Mason's vocal style features a gravelly, emotive delivery influenced by Americana traditions, conveying vulnerability and intensity with a dark drawl that echoes figures like . This raw timbre provides hushed urgency in quieter moments, as in the lullaby-like intimacy of "Where the Humans Eat," while building to more forceful expressions in rock-infused tracks. His voice remains a central element, carrying emotional weight without overproduction, even as arrangements evolve. While Mason's early recordings, such as those on Where the Humans Eat, embrace a lo-fi, basement-recorded aesthetic with simple, unostentatious production to heighten immediacy and authenticity, his later albums shift toward more polished yet intimate setups. By Carry On, the sound incorporates dub and reggae elements alongside folk roots, refining the production while preserving the raw, protest-folk essence through emotive vocals and narrative focus. This progression maintains thematic consistency and an accessible, human-centered vibe across his discography.

Key influences and evolution

Willy Mason's musical foundations were deeply rooted in his family's artistic legacy, with his parents, Jemima James and Michael , serving as primary influences through their own songwriting and traditions. Growing up surrounded by their compositions, Mason absorbed a raw, narrative-driven approach to music that emphasized storytelling and simplicity. This familial immersion extended to broader Americana and icons, including , , and , whose protest-oriented lyrics and acoustic authenticity shaped his early worldview and compositional style. The natural environment of , where Mason was raised in relative isolation from urban influences, profoundly impacted his lyricism, fostering themes of environmental awareness and drawn from , , and land-based living. This regional backdrop contributed to an eco-conscious undercurrent in his work, reflecting the rhythms of and human connection to it. His sound evolved from the raw, acoustic of his debut , characterized by contemplative ballads and bluesy undertones, toward more rock-infused arrangements in subsequent releases, incorporating fuller instrumentation and dynamic energy. Following the 2012 release of , Mason's evolution shifted toward greater collaboration and live performance integration, with his style becoming more band-oriented and experimental, as seen in edgier, disjointed productions that built on earlier electronic explorations, including the dense art-pop arrangements of Already Dead (2021) and the folk-infused liberation in the single "" (2025). His 2007 collaboration with on tracks like "" introduced subtle electronic elements that later informed his mid-career sound, blending folk roots with broader sonic textures. Despite the absence of major awards, critics have praised this authentic progression for its consistency and depth, though documentation of influences prior to his 2004 debut remains limited, largely anecdotal from family accounts.

Discography

Studio albums

Willy Mason's debut studio album, Where the Humans Eat, was released on October 12, 2004, by Team Love Records in the United States and internationally. Recorded at Old Soul Studio in Catskill, , with his brother Sam Mason on drums, the album delves into themes of everyday struggles, , and human resilience through raw folk-rock arrangements and introspective lyrics. Critics praised its literate songwriting and fresh indie-folk voice, likening Mason to a modern ; it charted at No. 38 on the upon its 2005 European release and earned a 7/10 rating from for its energetic, unpolished charm. His sophomore effort, If the Ocean Gets Rough, arrived on March 5, 2007, via , marking a shift to more polished production while expanding on emotional and personal turmoil. The 12-track record features midtempo pop-Americana with layered , including strings and horns, to convey vulnerability and relational depth, as heard in singles like "Save Myself" and "We Can Be Strong." It peaked at No. 33 on the , receiving favorable reviews for its substantial songcraft and maturity, with awarding it 7.4/10 and noting its clever evolution from the debut's rawness. After a five-year , Mason returned with on December 3, 2012, under , reflecting a label change and a move to during its creation. Produced by Dan Carey, the album emphasizes themes of perseverance, self-reflection, and blues-infused resilience amid personal challenges, blending acoustic intimacy with electric energy on tracks like "Don't Stop Now." It garnered solid acclaim for its emotional authenticity and traditional motifs, debuting at No. 95 on the and earning a 7.2/10 from , which highlighted it as Mason's most personal work to date; extensive touring followed, including European and North American dates. Mason's fourth studio album, Already Dead, was released on August 6, 2021, by , his first full-length in nearly a decade and the first entirely written and recorded at his home in , , with producer Noel Heroux. The record confronts themes of deception, digital anonymity, societal critique, and inner conflict through sparse, haunting arrangements and pointed lyrics, as in the "Youth on a Spit." It received strong positive reception for its timely relevance and raw honesty, with rating it 8/10 and outlets like calling it a welcome return; no further studio albums have been released as of 2025.

Extended plays

Willy Mason's extended plays have played a crucial role in his career, often serving as experimental outlets for raw, acoustic-driven material that bridges the gaps between his studio albums, previews evolving themes, and captures transitional phases in his songwriting. His earliest EP, the Untitled 5-Song EP (also referred to as G-Ma's Basement), was released independently in 2004 on the G-Ma's Basement label. This lo-fi collection features solo acoustic performances of five tracks—"Live It Up," "Hard Hand to Hold," "Waiter at the Station," "Not Lie Down," and "Oxygen"—demonstrating Mason's initial folk influences and intimate recording style that caught the attention of figures like Conor Oberst, leading to his signing with Team Love Records. The Hard Hand to Hold EP, issued later in 2004 by , built on this foundation with pre-debut material that foreshadowed the and raw emotion of his debut Where the Humans Eat. Comprising four tracks—"Live It Up," "Waiter at the Station," "Hard Hand to Hold," and "It's Not Sane"—the EP emphasized themes of urban hardship and vulnerability, particularly in the title track addressing the plight of the homeless in . In , Scraps emerged as a promotional EP on , functioning as a between Mason's first two albums with a mix of re-recorded earlier songs and new live elements. The four-track release includes "Not Lie Down," "Live It Up," "It's Not Sane," and a live rendition of "Fear No Pain" featuring the , highlighting his growing comfort with collaborative performances and sonic experimentation during a period of artistic maturation. The Don't Stop Now EP, released in late 2012 on Roll Up Records ahead of Carry On, extended Mason's introspective style with four original tracks—"Talk Me Down," "I Got ," "Restless Fugitive," and "Don't Stop Now"—that previewed the album's themes of and personal reflection while offering stripped-down arrangements for deeper emotional impact. It's Easy to Talk EP, released in 2007, features tracks including "Just a Passing Phase," "Easy to Talk," "The Wind Blows," "The Beast," and "Raise This Roof," showcasing Mason's continued exploration of folk-rock introspection. gmb01 Live Tour EP, a 2009 live recording, captures performances from Mason's tour, highlighting his acoustic style in a raw, on-stage setting. Upstairs at United, Vol. 7, a 2013 collaboration with on 453 Music, was a limited-edition vinyl EP limited to 5,000 copies worldwide. Produced by , it reinterprets seven and songs originally written by Mason's parents, Jemima James and Michael Mason, including "Waiter at the Station," "," "She Flows, She Flows," "It's You," "Wild Dog Blues," "Cowboy Calling Card," and "Landed for Bear," showcasing Mason's roots in familial traditions and his ability to blend contemporary with vintage Americana.

Singles

Willy Mason's debut single, "Oxygen," released in 2005, marked his breakthrough in the , peaking at number 23 on the Official Singles Chart and spending three weeks in the Top 75. As the lead track from his debut album Where the Humans Eat, it showcased his folk-rock style with introspective lyrics critiquing , gaining airplay from UK DJs and establishing his early international presence. The follow-up single, "So Long," also issued in 2005, reached number 45 on the , charting for two weeks and reinforcing Mason's momentum from his debut release. It served as a promotional extension of Where the Humans Eat, blending acoustic elements with themes of farewell and resilience. "Hard Hand to Hold," released in 2005, further highlighted themes of social hardship from his early material. In 2007, "Save Myself" from Mason's second album If the Ocean Gets Rough peaked at number 42 on the during its single-week run in the Top 75. The track highlighted his evolving songwriting, focusing on personal empowerment amid societal pressures, and contributed to the album's modest commercial reception. "We Can Be Strong," also from If the Ocean Gets Rough and released in 2007, peaked at No. 52 on the . "Youth on a Spit," released on March 29, 2021, acted as the for Mason's Already Dead, announcing his return after a nine-year from full-length releases. The song explores struggles for in an advertising-driven culture, with Mason describing it as a reflection on freedom and resistance, though it did not achieve notable chart success. Mason's most recent single, "," arrived on September 12, 2025, tying into his ongoing tour schedule and emphasizing themes of liberation and finding light amid darkness. Released independently via Grandma's Basement/, it captures his matured influences in a concise, uplifting , marking a fresh chapter in his career without entering major charts as of late 2025.

Collaborations and activism

Notable collaborations

Willy Mason provided guest vocals on "," a track from ' 2007 album We Are the Night, marking an early crossover into electronic music that contrasted his roots. This collaboration highlighted Mason's versatile , blending seamlessly with the duo's pulsating synths and beats to create a brooding about resilience. In 2010, Mason contributed vocals to two songs on Hawk, the third collaborative album by and : a cover of Townes Van Zandt's "No Place to Fall" and the original "Cool Water." His weary, intimate delivery on these tracks added a layer of raw emotional depth to the album's alt-country and blues-infused sound, standing in for Lanegan on the Van Zandt cover during live performances as well. Mason co-wrote and provided backing vocals on the title track "Is Your Love Big Enough?" from Lianne La Havas' 2012 debut album, while also featuring prominently on "No Room for Doubt." His involvement brought a folk-tinged to La Havas' soulful R&B style, enhancing the songs' introspective themes of love and doubt. On Jamie Woon's 2015 album , Mason delivered lead vocals on the duet "," co-writing the track with Woon to infuse electronic soul with rustic folk elements. The song's decadent production and shared verses underscored Mason's ability to adapt his narrative-driven style to Woon's atmospheric grooves. Mason joined for the 2013 EP Upstairs at United, Vol. 7, a collaborative project interpreting songs by Jemima James and Michael Mason in a bluegrass-country vein. Produced by , the release featured the duo's intertwined vocals and instrumentation, capturing a playful, rootsy energy during a limited pressing. Post-2020, Mason's collaborative output has been more sporadic, with notable features including vocals on Lexie Roth's 2021 single "Western Skies," where his rumbling baritone complemented her storytelling lens on loss and . He also appeared on Rose Guerin's 2022 track "Stars," adding harmonic depth to its ethereal folk-pop arrangement. In 2024, Mason contributed vocals to Jackson Greenberg's Maybe This Year: The Lost Tracks on "Intro v5.0" and "Intro v8.0." These partnerships reflect a continued evolution toward intimate, genre-blending works amid limited recent documentation of broader projects.

Activism and philanthropic efforts

Willy Mason has contributed to initiatives through his music. In 2007, he donated a live recording of his song "," performed at Aboveground Records in , to the compilation album Radio Waves, Vol. 1. The album was released to raise funds for transmitting equipment for WVVY-LP, a low-power station serving . Mason's activism has increasingly focused on environmental causes, particularly those affecting his home island of . In late September 2025, Mason performed at a private in the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, organized in coordination with the group White Pine Friendly, to raise awareness about a state-approved plan to clear approximately 175 acres of white pine forest by 2035, with the first phase targeting 52 acres between December 2025 and April 2026. The intimate event, attended by about 12 people, featured four songs, including a video-recorded of "What Is This," and aimed to encourage proactive land management for amid concerns over pine beetle infestations. Mason described the gathering as "an opportunity to think about how we can better manage our shared spaces more proactively." His philanthropic efforts extend to local community support on . In June 2025, Mason performed at the third annual for Island Elderly Housing at the in Oak Bluffs, joining a lineup of local artists including Lilah Larson, Kit Orion, and Lexie Roth to raise funds for for seniors and disabled residents. The event, held on June 27, underscored his ties to island welfare initiatives. Documentation of Mason's activism prior to 2021 remains limited, though his eco-conscious themes in songwriting have consistently informed these realized efforts through targeted live events.

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