Zachary Mason, the musical moniker of UK-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Daniel Macintyre, continues to carve out his own creative lane with his latest EP, 5…4…3…2…1…. Based in Guildford, Surrey, Mason has been steadily building a catalog of thoughtful, genre-blending work since 2021. His sound is rooted in rock and indie influences but always stretches beyond them, bringing in cinematic tones and a strong lyrical focus. Following releases like Songs and a handful of introspective singles, this EP captures Mason at his most imaginative yet. It’s a small collection that feels like a much larger journey.
Track by Track
5…4…3…2…1…
The EP kicks off with the title track, which immediately sets an atmospheric tone. There’s a sense of ignition here, a feeling of lift-off that fits perfectly with the countdown name. The guitars and percussion build tension, while Mason’s voice rides that energy with conviction. It’s a song about leaving something behind and finding strength in momentum.
The Funky Martians
Here, Mason loosens things up and has some fun. The groove is infectious, and the bassline feels like it could have come straight out of a retro sci-fi dance party. Lyrically and sonically, it’s playful, balancing the heavier ideas of the EP with humor and curiosity. This is where Mason shows how comfortable he is blending imagination with musicianship.
Earthsick
The closing track feels intimate and emotional. It slows everything down, shifting the focus to melody and reflection. “Earthsick” captures the ache of looking back at what you’ve left behind, even when progress pulls you forward. It’s a moving end that gives the whole project weight and a quiet sense of resolution.
5…4…3…2…1… may only be three songs long, but it carries the emotional and conceptual depth of a full album. Zachary Mason proves that you don’t need a long tracklist to tell a complete story. The production feels cohesive, the songwriting sharp, and the emotion real.
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