Zachary Mason isn't afraid to make it weird, and that is what makes his new single, "The Funky Martians," just plain fun. The second track on his forthcoming EP 5…4…3…2…1… is an otherworldly excursion to Mars, where humans bump into their potential alien adversaries, and, as Mason frames it, they conquer them not with weapons, but with funk.
The song is replete with quirky charm from the very first notes. Backed by Nate Barnes (of Rose Hill Drive) on drums and John Thomasson (of Little Big Town) on bass, the groove can't be denied. The song's psychedelic textures are wrapped in tight layers of guitars and voice effects, conjuring a vintage space rock vibe that reminds me of a very funny, yet nostalgic era, more like a Craig Ferguson "Ziggy Stardust" than David Bowie himself.
Mason incorporates his creativity not just musically, but narratively. He speaks for the Martians, for the humans, and for the narrator himself, all while blending character and concept. The whole result is refreshingly unpretentious: a nice little piece that is imaginative, well crafted, and entertaining in the detailed realities on which it torpedoes.
“The Funky Martians” demonstrates that music doesn’t have to be so earnest to be exciting. It’s funky, it’s smart, and most importantly, it’s Zachary Mason. Hang on tight, this musical journey is only just beginning.
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