Photos

Man Must Explore @ Lost & Found, 12/19/2025

By Stephanie J Bartik on December 22, 2025

ALBANY, N.Y. – December 19, 2025 – Man Must Explore took over Lost and Found in Albany, NY on December 19, 2025, for a powerful hometown send-off show before heading west. The night marked the beginning of an ambitious year ahead, as the band prepares to spend all of 2026 touring the Northwest and West Coast in support of their newly released album, “Rise.”

Man Must Explore is:

Ryan Treen – founder, vocalist, and guitar
Ana Carolina – bass
Tia Malai Mathison – drums
Thommy Harrington – guitar

Blending post-punk, blues, and emo-pop, their sound is layered with themes of space, nature, and inner self-discovery. The band’s name comes from a quote by astronaut David Scott, reflecting humanity’s innate need to explore – a concept that runs deeply through their music.

Formed in 2019, Man Must Explore evolved through several iterations before settling into its current lineup around 2023, ultimately becoming a close-knit musical family with a clear vision and drive.

On a personal note, I first met and photographed this band back in 2019, when we were all still just starting out.
After a multi-band show – I believe at Empire Underground – Ryan reached out about doing a promotional photo session. We had planned an outdoor shoot, but the weather forced a quick Plan B. I contacted Jody Brenenstuhl at The Rustic Barn, and, being exactly who she is, she welcomed us with open arms.

I remember working with them that day thinking, “Young kids with a dream – how cool is this?” But what stood out immediately was Ryan’s focus. He knew exactly what he wanted, and we made it happen. Over the years, I’ve watched this band grow — musically, personally, and professionally – right in front of my lens.

The changes they’ve made along the way have transformed them into a force to be reckoned with. I am incredibly proud to have been part of their journey, and I truly believe something special is happening here.

These “kids” are going to be something special. Just watch.

Photography by Stephanie J Bartik.