Release Date: May 12th 2023. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD
Shifting Sands - Tracklisting
Nirvana Dunes
Tempest
Eternal Shadow
Review
Shifting Sands is the new EP from Psych Doom/Stoner Rockers Cervus who I’ve featured on the blog twice before. The band have upped their game with this EP with their sound given a richer, bolder and thicker feel compared to their previous releases. There’s a subtle Psychedelic element on the EP but they never stray from their Seventies based roots with a lush modern day Psych vibe with traces of Blues Rock.
Opening song Nirvana Dunes has an interesting premise with Cervus playing elements of Doom Rock, Americana, Country, Blues Rock and Stoner Rock. The sound is mostly semi-acoustic with a breezy and free-flowing attitude that screams 1970’s Hard Rock. The vocals are mostly peaceful and soulful. The later stages of the track sees Cervus move up a gear and bring a heavier Desert/Stoner Rock groove to the track. There’s a “Lo-fi” Post-Psych drive to the band that will appeal to fans of All Them Witches and King Buffalo.
Second song Tempest opts for a more Doom based Garage Rock sound with elements of Psyched Out Blues for a faster and aggressive sound compared to the first track. There’s also a “FUNK” based guitar that’s quite different to hear. Cervus then brings in a highly convincing DOOM METAL groove that is quite Jazzy in places. The song does feel like a collection of extended jam sessions in places but when the riffs are that good I’m not going to complain at all.
Third song Eternal Shadow.is the gloomiest and DOOMED out track on the whole EP which moves Cervus firmly over to the Post-Doom or Post-Stoner world compared to their previous releases. The sound is highly atmospheric and quite dramatic with the heavier stylish grooves and eerie Psychedelic tones the band employ here. Taking cues from Black Sabbath and Uncle Acid this is Cervus at their creepiest and demonic best and they even find the time to add a slight NWOBHM influence to the mix which allows the EP to end in highly convincing fashion.
Shifting Sands is a superb release and showcases why Cervus are one of the best kept secrets from the Netherlands Stoner Rock/Metal Underground Scene.
Words by Steve Howe
Thanks to Cervus for the promo.
Shifting Sands will be available to buy on Digital Download on May 12th 2023 from all digital stockists.
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