Mass Datura
Since forming in 2014, London five-piece Mass Datura have earned a reputation for their mesmerizing, raw and unpredictable live performances — utilizing the lo-fi and psychedelic foundation on which the band was built.
Initially formed by singer, writer, and artist Thomas Rowe, the project began as an outlet to channel his own strange childhood experiences. Born and raised in the rural ghettos of Western Canada, frontman Rowe discovered at an early age what a powerful form of escapism music could be for him. Inspired by the sounds of doo wop, Nirvana, and The Melvins as well as old blues, gospel, and American folk music, Rowe’s first instrument he learned was the harmonica. He then went on to master tenor banjo and guitar.
Landing as an alien in London eight years ago, Rowe gathered a group of like-minded East London misfits around him, playing and discussing music together, and from this, Mass Datura was founded. Taking their name from 16th century occult mythology, the Datura flower when ingested was said to give you the ability to levitate — flying through bleak night skies around the world snatching up little children.