Inspired by psych rock pioneers like Pink Floyd, Pretend Collective‘s new track, We Were Machines, is a special one.

By Graeme Smith

For the track, composer Mike Reilly also drew on his childhood love of sci-fi and pop culture, resulting in a wonderfully otherworldly piece. A stripped-back first verse feels slightly eerie as dreamy vocals deliver poetic lyrics that speak of our relationship with intelligent technology. From there, we get into it with an arrangement that brings to mind Spaghetti Westerns, the operatic rock of Muse, and Syd Barrett’s uniqueness. A second verse by beccs provides some striking texture.

The track will feature on Pretend Collective’s album Summer’s End Parade, set for release 6 September 2024. The limited edition 12″ vinyl and digital album is available to pre-order via Bandcamp now.

You can listen to We Were Machines below.