London/Oxford based Mandrake Handshake, self described as the ‘Flowerkraut Collective’ and ranging from seven to 10 members have built a cult following through a hard to pin down sound that incorporates elements of jazz, psychedelic rock and so much more. The collective’s debut LP ‘Earth-Sized Worlds’ delivers on their promise to date with a hypnotic first full release. 

Opener ‘Time Goes Up’, captures the lightening in a bottle feel of their sound with a soft, almost jazzy opening with numerous elements that never bring chaos but a sense of a group working harmoniously. It is a fresh sound that certainly harkens back to the late 60s and 70s but with a fresh spin, wildly creative. 

‘Hypersonic Super Astrid’ is a true epic coming in at eight minutes 30 seconds, really allowing the group to let loose. It really brings together the disparate parts of the group’s sound and is easy to picture going down a storm live. Row Janjuah the group’s lead guitarist and creative force is allowed the opportunity to cut loose here. 

The title track and closer compliments this at close to 10 minutes, a swirling epic that encapsulates their wider sound into one track, chaotic and unexpected yet thrilling.

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‘Charlie’s Comet’ has more of a laid back vibe initially driven by its smooth bassline, gradually becoming something more textured and harder to pindown. As with most of the album the layers to the sound are what makes it a fascinating listen. 

‘The Change’ and ‘The Changing’, has more of a classic rock/folk feel to it especially in the opening riff which really showcases Janjuah’s chops as a guitarist. The almost jazz drumbeats that accompany it, give it a different side as it progresses, more straightforward than some of the other tracks but nonetheless impressive. 

‘Lorenzo’s Desk’ feels more indie but with the group’s ethereal sound added, resulting in something unique. Just when you think it’s one thing it veers in a different direction. ‘King Cnut’ is a highlight, channeling indie-folk with some of the more unorthodox sounds that the group brings, sure to be a fan favourite. 

‘Find The Tree’ and ‘Dig’ brings more of a blues flavour with its slightly earthier riffs, that then fade into the background, lingering throughout. Later on it feels like there are shades of R&B or trip-hop. 

This is a debut that is hard to describe and that works in its favour, it is a fascinating listen that defies categorisation but never derails. These are musicians of the highest order and clearly this is a labour of love that has been a long time in the making. It feels as if we are at the start of an exciting new cross-genre group with an LP that will reward multiple listens. 

8/10 

Words: Christopher Connor

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