 Mandragora
"Full Bloom" CDR EP
Self-released
Genres: psychedelic hard rock, hard rock,
psychedelia
Mandragora
227 Pine Tree Ln.
Norman, OK 73072
Nov 17 - 23 2003 |
I
got a lot more from Mandragora's Full Bloom EP than I
thought I would. Looking at the cover and the comically
ridiculous band photo, I was expecting some sort of terrible
industrial / metal knock-off. What I got, instead, was a unique
brand of vintage psychedelic hard rock.
The disappointingly short five-song EP starts off with the Iron
Maiden-meets-Pebbles rocker "Fixed Up
High." Its dark metal melody is complemented nicely by some
acid rock-esque effects and performance. The EP's best song,
"Seeds In My Skin," meanwhile, is a remarkably infectious number. Its sixties, acid-drenched melody is only enhanced by
the band's Strawberry Alarm Clock-esque organ; Mandragora's
hard rock leanings only perfect the tune's terrific sound.
Mandragora's music is catchy and lots of fun. While
the recording quality isn't great on the Full Bloom EP, they
seem to have the musical talent necessary to really rock out.
Those interested should definitely check them out live, although mp3s
are available on their
website and their debut album is coming out later this year.
Overall, this EP is the first release from an exciting new band.
Be aware.
85%
Fun Fact: "Mandragora" is
actually another name for mandrake, a Mediterranean herb with a root
that can be used as an aphrodisiac. It is also common in occult
circles and is used in many black magic practices.
Matt Shimmer
[Vitals: 6 tracks, distributed by the
label, released 2003] |
