In-between releasing albums from other artists, he moved to Spain and wrote and recorded 'Loving Echoes', his debut solo album inspired by a new environment, the end of one relationship and the start of another.
The reflective lyrics capture those various emotions well. 'Loving Echoes' has been a while coming as Mannion - a self-confessed perfectionist - kept adding little touches to the album which fill it up with charming and evocative sounds.
While his music recalls the bedroom indie-pop of The Tokey Tones, it holds a deeper, and sincere emotional resonance, which extends to the clarity of his lyrics.
'Loving Echoes' has inevitable cameos from many Lil' Chief friends, including Jonathan Bree, James Milne, Ryan McPhunn, Chelsea Nikkel and Clara Vinals - who shines on Your Kinda Love, an incredibly catchy duet with Mannion, where her vocals provide an excellent counterpoint.
Bree's bass playing is also a highlight. Melodic and fluid, it adds another layer to the album. Mannion might not be a household name, but 'Loving Echoes' is a lovely record, with offbeat charm and colour, and string and horn arrangements that are subtle enough to fit perfectly with his sound.