Based in Guildford, Zachary Mason, an artist with an established reputation as a daring experimenter, demonstrates his audacious grasp on both storytelling and sound with his EP, 5…4…3…2…1…. While the EP comprises just three tracks, it feels expansive when the listener weaves through the intricacies of space rock, psychedelic textures, and experimental edges in an extended cosmic narrative underpinned by both humor and reflection.
The EP begins with its title track, 5…4…3…2…1… a dramatic sonic introduction where humans leave Earth, destroyed by climate change and their own blunders. The track adds urgency by combining driving instrumentation, futuristic atmospherics, and an ambiguous temporal dimension, quickly orienting listeners. The second track, The Funky Martians, moves completely in tone; the listener immerses in a comedic but chaotic interaction with hostile martians. Through quirky arrangement choices and infectious grooves, the track becomes a surreal interplanetary jam. Finally, in the closing ethical song, Earthsick, settlers on Mars mourn the loss of Earth and find themselves alone in a bleak reality. Mason turns a somber note upside down, even through the themes of melancholy and enrichment. Keyboards and bass create a sound felt long after, and are ideally played on repeat.
The EP showcases incredible collaborators, including drummer Nate Barnes of Rose Hill Drive and bassist John Thomasson of Little Big Town, and was mixed and mastered with help from Hong Kong-based artist Derrick Lin. Their artistic contributions help fulfill Mason’s vision, and his own first debut of playing bass in Earthsick is a personal highlight for him.
Since 2021, Mason has created over two hundred demos, inspired by legends like Neil Young, Bob Dylan, David Bowie, and The Beatles. By bringing these influences to the table in 5…4…3…2…1..., he further establishes his place as an accomplished and multi-disciplined performer who isn’t afraid to fuse storytelling, humor, and sonic creativity.
For Mason, this EP is a fun yet poignant commentary on the humanity of fragility and resilience with creativity in rock that is as enjoyable as it is intellectually stimulating.
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