Judging from Visions for the Celestial, this New Zealand power trio has it all: a very strong rock guitarist recalling Frank Marino or even Jimi Hendrix, a solid singer with a warm voice capable of excitement and a potent rhythm section. Somewhere between blues rock and space rock, Datura is part the Jimi Hendrix Experience, part ZZ Top with a zest of Hawkwind and Meddle-era Pink Floyd for flavor. This is in space rock country, but in power trio format -- swirling keyboards are occasional and only the 15-minute closer "Mantra" is overtly spacy. Entering the album by the front door, you'll be greeted by "Magnetize," a powerful Hendrixian blues rock number with decibels aplenty. Brent Middlemiss' guitar is the center of attention, being put forward in the mix, over Jon Burnside's square drumming (reminiscent of John Bonham) and often drowning Craig Williamson's vocals -- but this detail doesn't really get in the way of the listener's pleasure. Of course, Datura doesn't break any new grounds, but this band is surprisingly solid and mature. What they do, they do very well, and guitar fans and nostalgic persons of a time when rock was visceral should definitely listen to Visions for the Celestial. ~ François Couture, All Music Guide
