Mandy Moore gave a select crew of Japanese fashion editors an exclusive preview of her upcoming album Monday night with a mini concert to fete Coach’s new Tokyo headquarters. Moore belted out a smattering of her folk-infused tunes from the soon-to-be released “Amanda Leigh”, while her co-writer and producer Mike Viola backed her on acoustic guitar.
“I wanted to make a really quintessential southern California pop record from the 70s,” Moore quipped after her soulful set. “We made it in our buddy’s basement in Boston on all vintage equipment.”
For the cover of the album, she turned to Coach president and creative director Reed Krakoff to shake up her wholesome image and show a more “adult” side of her personality. “We had some fishnets going on…I haven’t necessarily dipped my toe in that pool before but I liked it,” said Moore, clad in drop-waist black dress and high-heeled sandals. “Amanda Leigh” drops May 26.
Moore said that even though she has a couple film projects looming, she is focusing on her music and an upcoming tour for now. Even fashion is taking a backseat. The singer/actress, whose boyfriend Ryan Adams accompanied her on the trip, revealed that she just shuttered her clothing brand Mblem. The contemporary label was launched in 2005.
“I love the fashion world. I’m fascinated by it. I’m humbled by it,” she said. “If I were to dip my toe back in there, it would have to be the right situation… a great partnership that could represent a true reflection of me and my ideas and you know that wasn’t happening. So next go round, that needs to be top of the list.”