Mass Datura’s space-nodding psych slips through consciousness

Proggy, space-age pop tends to walk a dangerous tightrope between audacious brilliance and self-indulgent pap. Fortunately for London four-piece Mass Datura, in their early days they already seem to have carefully avoided the pitfalls of showy riffs and outward-thinking psych.

The group’s new 7”, ‘Feel Me Human’ b/w ‘Dream Thief’ is a conscience-altering escape. Instead of papering over the cracks of everyday reality, it presents an alternate world. ‘Feel Me Human’ is all dreamy guitar parts barmy barks (like if Animal Collective’s ‘Feels’ was reinterpreted by The Flaming Lips), while ‘Dream Thief’ explores the group’s more glammed-up leanings. Throughout, there’s always a risk that Mass Datura might go one space mission too far and down into a dastardly black hole. For the time being though, they’re striking a perfect balance.

Pre-order their 7” single here.

Mass Datura are midway through UK dates with Black Mountain - they arrive in the capital tomorrow:

NOVEMBER
16 Bristol, Fiddlers
17 London, Tufnell Park Dome
18 London, Shacklewell Arms (w/ LA Witch)

Photo: Caroline Rosalie Brouard