Faerie Ring - Faerie Ring (Album Review)

Release Date: August 21st 2026. Record Label: King Volume Records. Formats: CD/DD/Tape/Vinyl

Faerie Ring - Tracklist

1.NEW GODS

2.FATTEST WITCH

3.BIGGIEST HIT

4.LOST BOY

5.FLAIL

6.DRAGGIN

7.HOWLING AT THE MISTY MOON

8.GARGOYLE

9.NO SURRENDER

10.CHAMPION

Members

James Wallwork - Electric Guitar/Vocals

Kyle Hulgus - Electric Guitar

Alex Wallwork - Electric Bass Guitar/Vocals

Matt McGuyer - Drums & Cymbals

Review

Faerie Ring made quite a name for themselves with their first two records which showed the band had a mighty promise for all things Doom, Sludge and Stoner Rock that was lovingly wrapped in a cocoon of distorted slice of psychedelic heaviness. However, it feels the band have gone back to basics for their third album and went straight back to the drawing board. For a start, this is a self-titled album which opens a new chapter for the band. They’ve stripped their music down to the bare essentials and you’re left with a quintessential vintage sounding record that’s main creative strengths lies within its great use of modern day technicolour melodies and cinematic flair.

The album sees Faerie Ring use elements of Seventies Hard Rock, Proto-Doom and Heavy Metal whilst adding a backdrop of modern day Prog Metal, Sludge Rock, Stoner Rock and Fuzz Rock grooves. There’s a wicked style of Garage Rock ferocity that’s used for the creepy level of distortion that’s hidden in the background and pulling all the strings for when the heavy sounds fully appear.

Taking cues from the likes of The Sword, Mastodon, Thin Lizzy, The Obsessed, King Buffalo and ELDER whilst creating an album solely in your own image is no small feat but Faerie Ring pulls this off magnificently. The band opens up with the stunning opening tracks of New Gods and Fattest Witch which allows them to lay down their new found creative credentials with a massive melting pot of WEEDIAN SMOKE buried amongst those vintage burning amps and distorted sludge metal surroundings. 

They add a great fantastical style of storytelling into their lyrics which is epic in scale with massive amounts of OVER THE TOP themes just allowing the listener to fully go along with the whole record. Faerie Ring slowly start changing their music through every track with a stubborn musical energy being played that makes them simply unbeatable on the day on tracks such as Biggest Hit, Flail, Draggin, Howling At The Misty Moon, Champion and No Surrender.

Faerie Ring aligned themselves more to the burgeoning modern day Psych Stoner Rock scene championed by the likes of ELDER, King Buffalo and Howling Giant on the later stages of the record. However, I also noticed instances of TORCHE based Doom Pop atmospherics which isn’t surprising with Jonathan Nunez on mastering duties on this record which I only discovered until very recently. 

This is the type of album that I wanted The Sword to continue making to this day instead of some of the more mainstream efforts they actually released. This record is going to be a game changer as it’s heartfelt when it matters and DOOM AS HELL when that heavy slab of DOOMED OUT aggression is needed. 

As I stated previously in this review, this record has a core Seventies Heavy Rock aesthetic embedded within its whole DNA and the way how the music is played and wholly delivered, this record feels like it was recorded over fifty years ago but finally being discovered in the modern age for the very first time. The album has that huge vintage feeling but with a superb modern based delivery at the same time.

Faerie Ring’s self-titled album is an absolute breathtaking record from beginning to end and one that’s packed full of classic sounding tracks throughout. This could actually be a game changer for the band and even elevate them to the same status as King Buffalo and Howling Giant in the next eighteen months or so. 

This is another ALBUM OF THE YEAR contender. Add this record to your collection now. END OF!!!

Words by Steve Howe

Thanks to Pat at Poetica Marketing for the promo.

Faerie Ring is available to buy now on CD/DD/Tape/Vinyl.

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Mean Green - Castle (Album Review)

Release Date: August 14th 2026. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD/Vinyl

Castle - Tracklist

1. Castle (3:45)

2. Sludge Puppy (4:33)

3. Employee Of The Month (6:23)

4. Wild Bill (4:30)

5. Slack Jaw (5:26)

6. Cyclone (5:01)

7. Wasteland (5:16)

Members

Jake Helms - Guitar, Vocals

Alex Wierback - Bass

James Matthews - Drums

Review

Castle is the sophomore album of WEEDIAN Metallers Mean Green and sees the band expand their heavy filthy hallucinogenic sound even further compared to their acclaimed 2023 self-titled debut album. Mean Green have always leaned more heavily into the Sludge Metal camp with sludgy passages influenced by the likes of HIGH ON FIRE, WEEDEATER and BONGZILLA. 

The added layers of Doomed Out FUZZ allows a slight Electric Wizard and Church Of Misery vibe to slowly creep in. Mean Green allows some trippy SONIC experimentation flow through their music with shades of Classic Rock Legends such as Cactus, Blue Cheer and Saint Vitus spliced throughout this vicious sounding record. The LOW & SLOW grooves have a calculated and methodical delivery to them which sees some of the heaviest AMPLIFIED surrounding melodies developing on the album thanks to tracks such as Castle, Sludge Puppy, Employee Of The Month and Cyclone.

Mean Green have really improved their technical ability in handling their Psychedelic and Space Rock creative themes as this record is more definitely more drugged out with trippier sonic passages emerging from the down tuned catacombs that the band expertly construct. With a thrilling progressive sound allowing Mean Green to move into the Southern Metal arena with epic outbursts of NOLA aggression changing the album into a faster style of delivery which is where the real magic happens. 

The vocals from Jake Helms haven’t changed much from the band’s acclaimed debut album but they have grown up with a violent delivery that oozes confidence from start to finish. Jake feels more comfortable here and he fully owns the demented front-man role he plays with absolute demented relish here. Add his intense guitar performance which allows Alex Wierback on Bass and James Matthews on Drums to fully commit to their violent rhythm section for some of the meanest, thickest and violent sounds that they brilliantly deliver.

Castle becomes a more violent Sludge Metal based journey with continuous levels of filth keeping everything brutally real with some of the thickest sonic passages you ever want to lose yourself in. The lyrics show a real violent flair which are quite close to the likes of WEEDZILLA and CHURCH OF MISERY but it fully sells the twisted vision of Castle that even allows Mean Green to indulge some mighty fine Progressive Sludge/Stoner Metal musical solos along the way that would make MASTODON green with envy!!!

Mean Green have expertly avoided the dreaded sophomore / second album curse with Castle. As this record alone feels like a statement of intent from the band that they mean business and they’re going to be around for a very long time to come. With a non-stop supply of WEEDIAN grooves to drown your hearing with, Mean Green have come of age with this outstanding record. Accept no substitute, these guys are the real fucking deal.  

Words by Steve Howe

Thanks to Good Boy PR for the promo.

Castle is available to buy now on DD/Vinyl.

Links

Facebook | Instagram | BandCamp

Funeral Joke - Funeral Joke (EP Review)

Release Date: July 24th 2026. Record Label: Self Released. Formats:DD

Funeral Joke - Tracklist

1.Funeral Joke 05:06

2.The Veil 05:51

3.Doomwell 05:10

4.Waiting For The Wound 05:42

5.Conscious 06:03

Members

Guitars: Michael Mauvais

Vocals: Nora Marcela Aguirre

Bass Guitar: Adrian Palacios

Drums: Matthew "Monty" Montana

Additional Keys and Synths: Anessa Hernandez

Review

The infamous El Paso, Texas Heavy Rock scene provides another great band for the underground scene to become accustomed with. This time round it’s Funeral Joke to make their appearance known with their great blend of Doom, Alt Metal, Sludge and Shoegaze sounds which they build from the ground up on their excellent debut self-titled EP.

The EP lasts around twenty nine minutes across five tracks where Funeral Joke combines that heavy Doomgaze sound against a Sludge Rock driven score with twisted Fuzzed Out melodies with dark levels of Grunge and Psychedelic Metal appearing. The superb opening title track is highly melodic but with a twisted undercurrent of Sludge, Doom and Fuzz Rock with the gloomy vocals from Nora Marcela Aguirre adding a slightly different Post-Gothic energy to the usual great style of Doomgaze sounds that’s becoming quite popular.

The record is cautiously bleak but that doesn’t stop Funeral Joke aiming for a certain Post-Punk and Post-Doom attitude on this record with small traces of Alt Metal keeping a subtle grounded sound emerging on tracks The Veil and Doomwell. There is an exquisite retro Nineties DOOM & GLOOM aesthetic that allows Funeral Joke to create bewitching melodies which feels that the band are bringing the Halloween Season a few months early with how the record builds up the eerie atmosphere slowly and quite confidently at the same time. 

Funeral Joke aims for a frantic Noise Rock finish on certain sections on the record where the later stages offer the most dramatic and distorted progressive moments on the whole EP. You can hear influences such as The Cult, Windhand, Monolord and Neurosis along the way. Well, that’s what I hear when everything is finished but there’s some wicked Stoner Metal sounds starting to emerge which become quite down-tuned and even transfers over into the LOW & SLOW amplified arena which should keep many folks / devoted followers of the almighty riff happy.

The lyrics are quite bleak but they manage to convey some subtle emotional energy to them which matches the music superbly well that allows Funeral Joke to deliver a highly engaging HEAVY RAWK experience you’ll fall in love with over time the more times you listen to the full emotionally charged experience. 

Words by Steve Howe

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

November Fire - Doom Blues (Single Review)

Release Date: August 05th 2026. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD

Doom Blues - Tracklist

Doom Blues

Lineup

Terry Aubie: Bass, vocals, lyrics

Dave Hubai: Guitars

Jim Kelley: Drums

Review

Doom/Stoner Metallers November Fire return with the second single and title track from their upcoming album Doom Blues due out later this year. This song is quite a progressive and seedy number set amongst the Doomed Out Cosmos with fuzzy guitars perfectly setting the scene for this space rock adventure. If you ever wondered what would happen if Monster Magnet, Danzig and Type O Negative joined creative forces then this is perhaps the best possible outcome. As Doom Blues is a slow paced number with areas of Doom, Fuzz, Grunge and Stoner Rock sounds with a dangerous aura of destructive forces hidden behind the scenes.

The vocals are equally outlandish thanks to the great work of Terry Aubie who projects his maddening “Dave Wyndorf” highly inspired persona whilst offering a true Post-Punk spirit amongst the most surreal moments where the excellent lyrics really come into their own. The music itself has a warped identity of its own and is never afraid to be truly outlandish and outrageous in equal measure especially within the slow-to-mid paced delivery of the whole song.

Though, my favourite aspect of Doom Blues is how November Fire overlaps different areas of Psych, Rock, Drone and Fuzz Rock grooves into a slightly nightmarish Stoner Rock style with that classic Blues Rock element finally starting to break free from the madness of it all. The later stages of the song is where all hell breaks loose where every member of the band (Terry Aubie, Dave Hubai and Jim Kelley) all try to wrestle full control of the band with some epic instrumental solos developing before unity is restored for a highly impressive finish that leaves you fully satisfied.

On the basis of this track alone then I’m quite excited to say that Doom Blues is one of my most anticipated records to listen and review before the year is out. 

Words by Steve Howe

Links 

Official | Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Atmospheric post-metal/sludge trio Palegazer sign with Octopus Rising, release debut single "Imminence"

Portuguese atmospheric post-metal/sludge trio Palegazer have officially joined the Octopus Rising / Argonauta Records roster and celebrate the announcement with the release of their powerful debut single, "Imminence," available now on all digital platforms.

Listen to "Imminence" here: https://tidal.com/album/546812582/u

Hailing from Porto, Palegazer craft immersive sonic landscapes where haunting melodies collide with overwhelming heaviness. Blending the expansive atmospheres of post-metal with the crushing weight of sludge and doom, the trio has forged a sound that is both emotionally resonant and sonically immense.

Moving effortlessly between clean vocals and anguished growls, shimmering textures and monolithic riffs, Palegazer embrace contrast as the driving force behind their songwriting. The result is a deeply evocative listening experience that explores vulnerability, tension and resilience through dynamic compositions and carefully layered arrangements.

Their first single, "Imminence," offers an impactful introduction to the band's identity, unfolding through hypnotic passages before erupting into waves of crushing intensity. It is a compelling statement from a band already demonstrating remarkable maturity and a distinctive artistic voice.

The label says: "Palegazer immediately stood out for their ability to balance emotional depth with sheer sonic weight. Their music is immersive, cinematic and deeply authentic, making them a natural fit for the Octopus Rising roster. We are excited to welcome the band and look forward to introducing their music to audiences around the world."

With "Imminence," Palegazer emerge as one of the most exciting new acts in Portugal's heavy underground. Fans of YOB, Russian Circles, REZN, Deafheaven, Conan, Bölzer, Mastodon, Ahab and Bell Witch will find plenty to immerse themselves in.

More news on Palegazer's upcoming debut release via Octopus Rising will be announced soon.

https://www.instagram.com/palegazer/
https://www.facebook.com/ArgonautaRecords

Blasphemists Temple - Demo (EP Review)

Release Date: July 07th 2026. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD/Tape

Demo - Tracklist

1.Devil's Flies 07:03

2.Thine 09:29

3.Curse 12:38

Lineup

Alistair Quietsch - Baritone, Vocals

Neil Smith - 7 String

Leo Hancill - Drums, Drones [Track 4]

Review

Blasphemists Temple make an almighty filthy impression with their heavy use of Drone, Noise and Doom Metal with its distorted environment giving any potential listener’s hearing an extensive workout. This is quite an experience when you listen to their debut demo for the first time. As Blasphemists Temple create violent slabs of grimy Droned Out Doom Metal with punishing vocals from Alistair Quietsch which feels like they are tapping into an unknown dimension of time and space.

With this being a DEMO release, the production values and recording techniques are quite DIY based with a sludgy appetite allowing the band to fully explore their Noise Rock persona that’s beaten through a solid mix of Post-Metal and Droned Out surroundings. There’s a manic Industrial Sledgehammer being applied within the screeching instrumental passages that feels like SUNN 0))), Author & Punisher and Killing Joke all joining musical forces at times. 

The opening track of Devil’s Flies is a nightmarish test of pure endurance to see how much punishment the listener can actually take as Blasphemists Temple employ an extreme style of Drone Metal into their music and I started to fall in line and actually enjoy this sordid exercise of pure sonic terror. The music may be too cerebral or one-note for some as this record is perhaps catered for the Extreme or Experimental crowd.

Second track Time opts for a riff-centric Post-Metal sound that’s filtered through an Industrial Metal filter once more. The song is all over the place with disjointed musical movements and violent Droned Out soundscapes that capture a decaying style of music that NEUROSIS created back in the day. The stripped back Psychedelic and Noise Rock grooves adds a level of gloomy carnage which still has a sense of twisted melody to it all. The vocals drift in and out of existence where they only appear when really needed. 

The final track Curse continues in a similar fashion as the previous two tracks but with a longer time frame of around thirteen minutes to play with. However, Blasphemists Temple do operate with a standard riff-centric Doom/Sludge Metal approach where a stunning Post-Rock sound emerges from the darkness which shows a different style of creative identity from the band. This is the standout track on the album as Blasphemists Temple allows themselves the perfect opportunity to add a level of calmness into their music whilst keeping a gloomy atmosphere slightly in the background.

Blasphemists Temple’s debut release is a violent delight and should allow them to gain a devoted loyal following within the underground metal scene.

Excellent and Highly Recommended.

Words by Steve Howe

Links

LinkTree | BandCamp

Hämnd - Bortom (Album Review)

Release Date: July 17th 2026. Record Label: Superlord Recordings. Formats: DD/Vinyl

Bortom - Tracklist

1.Mörk Vind 09:13

2.Faller och Förvittrar 09:33

3.Orkan 12:14

4.Bortom 05:34

Lineup

Magnus Strigner - Vocals, Guitars

Linus Marron de Martin - Guitars

David Reby - Bass

Oliver Winther - Synthesizer

Daniel Eklöw - Drums 

Review

Bortom is the second full length album Post-Metallers Hämnd which sometimes operates with an instrumental sound as its main creative drive. There are great vocals that appear when only they’re really needed as Hämnd demonstrate their own hard-hitting style of emotionally cruising Post-Metal sounds that mixes the technical merits of Progressive Metal with elements of Ambient based Post-Rock. The record does have an “Ice-cold” vibe that all great Post-Metal records continuously strive for where you can hear influences from the likes of NEUROSIS, PELICAN, ISIS and CULT OF LUNA.

There is an element of surprise with Hämnd as they ultimately turn off the heavy Post-Metal grooves when you least expect it and transform into a meditative style of Post-Doom and Post-Rock which you fully experience within the epic opening track of Mörk Vind. The vocals continuously hold your attention even whilst they’re sung in the band’s native tongue. Though, it’s the music that’s the main attraction here with Hämnd developing an aggressive journey of different Post-Rock and Post-Metal themes throughout the album.

Hämnd plays perfectly constructed and very lengthy instrumental passages which becomes more emotionally charged with each passing track as that thrilling Sludge Metal mentality allows Hämnd to become even more brutal with their music especially on tracks such as Faller och Förvittrar and Orkan. These tracks alone allows the band to add levels of cinematic “DOOM & GLOOM” into their music whilst once again transforming their music into that classic style of instrumental Post-Metal which does remind me of Russian Circles and Pelican at the peak of their creative powers. 

Sometimes there’s an undeniable “APOCALYPTIC” or “END OF THE WORLD” presence that’s holding everything together where Hämnd do offer brief moments of hope before returning to their highly destructive and brutal style of Post-Metal. The “HARDCORE” vocals become more demanding and quite unforgiving which makes the later stages of the album truly stand out.

The added use of clever sonic experimentation which delves into further areas of Ambient Sounds and Psychedelic textures gives Borton a vivid and destructive atmosphere which allows the listener to be emotionally involved with the whole musical journey that Hämnd has created here. To make the album even more part of the Post-Metal world, the whole thing was mastered by the legendary Magnus Lindberg (CULT OF LUNA) which is only a small winning part of why this record sounds incredible from start to finish.

Hämnd have delivered a truly exceptional record which no self-respecting Post-Metal fan should be without. This album pays homage to the legendary sounds first played by the great bands of the era whilst allowing Hämnd the perfect opportunity to create highly original Sludge/Post-Metal sounds of their own making.

Excellent and Highly Recommended.

Words by Steve Howe

Links

Bandcamp: https://hamndband.bandcamp.com/album/bortom
Youtube full album: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXFAzuekAJg
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5UAYC8EJi7OZ84qIz7sxNZ?si=sqbctwX2R3mltHlCpVMe2Q
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hamndband
Instagram.com https://www.instagram.com/hamndofficial

Prepare for a cosmic journey with Sight of Theia's The Great Dreamer

Atlanta progressive metal outfit Sight of Theia is set to unleash their highly anticipated debut full-length album, The Great Dreamer, on September 4, 2026. This self-released masterpiece is packed with crushing riffs, intricate musicianship, and an immersive science fiction narrative that takes listeners on a cinematic journey through the depths of space, where humanity encounters an ancient nightmare beyond comprehension.

Originally founded by guitarist and primary songwriter Alex Buhlig, Sight of Theia has evolved through several lineup changes before solidifying its current roster with drummer Ricky Shenkman, guitarist Charles Von Kanel, and bassist Bill Pritchard. The band built a strong reputation across the Atlanta metal scene with their energetic live performances and their previous release, the Lighthouse EP. With The Great Dreamer, they embark on an ambitious new project, creating a concept album that intertwines the technical precision of progressive metal with emotional intensity. The addition of vocalist Haden Rider proved to be the missing piece, as he brought the record's story to life with his commanding vocal performance.

The result is a progressive metal experience that intricately balances technical musicianship with gripping storytelling, drawing inspiration from cosmic horror. As described by the band, “The Great Dreamer is Sight of Theia's cosmic horror themed debut album telling the story of astronauts that find Cthulhu in space.” Fans of Mastodon, Leprous, and Meshuggah will find plenty to sink their teeth into, as the band blends thunderous grooves, progressive arrangements, atmospheric textures, and haunting melodies into an unforgettable listening experience.

The tracklist showcases the exceptional talents of:

- Alex Buhlig – Guitars, Synths, Backing Vocals
- Charles Von Kanel – Guitars
- Haden Rider – Lead Vocals
- Bill Pritchard – Bass
- Ricky Shenkman – Drums, Backing Vocals

The album also features an impressive production team including:

- Mixed and Mastered by: Christoffer Borg
- Drum Engineering: John Douglass
- Guitar & Bass Editing / Bass Engineering: Alex Parra
- Vocal Editing: Corey Bautista
- Artwork: Sara Slick

With its compelling concept, towering musicianship, and expansive sonic landscapes, The Great Dreamer marks a bold first full-length statement from a band poised to make waves in the progressive metal underground. The album will be available worldwide on September 4, 2026.

Pre-Save the album here: Pre-Save
Bandcamp Pre-Order: Bandcamp

For fans of:

- Mastodon
- Leprous
- Meshuggah

About Sight of Theia:

Sight of Theia is an Atlanta-based progressive metal band that has been making waves in the underground scene with their energetic performances and intricate music. With a vision to explore cosmic horror through their sound, they have created a unique niche that resonates with fans of the genre.

Follow Sight of Theia:

Apple Music: Apple Music
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Instagram
Spotify: Spotify
YouTube: YouTube
Bandcamp: Bandcamp

Thanks to Metal Devastation Radio PR for the details.

10,000 Years - Esox Lucifer (Album Review)

Release Date: August 07th 2026. Record Label: Ripple Music. Formats: CD/DD/Vinyl

Esox Lucifer - Tracklist

1.Beasts Of The Northern Wild

2.Pursuit Special

3.Fleur de Sledgehammer

4.Church Of The Red Museum

5.Alien Tactics 

6.Two Million Stones 

7.Paranoidium 

8.Esox Lucifer

Lineup

Alex Risberg - Bass/Vocals

Erik Palm - Guitars

Alvin Risberg - Drums

Review

Esox Lucifer is the fourth full length album from Doom/Stoner Metallers 10,000 Years where the band have partially swapped the Cosmic surroundings of Space for a grounded and cerebral approach for this record. The heavy Spaced Out themes are still there but 10,000 Years have opted for an intense melodic style of Sludge/Stoner Metal more accustomed to the likes of The Sword, KYLESA, BEASTWARS and Torche. They still pack the almighty aggression of their musical heroes HIGH ON FIRE but it’s good to see 10,000 Years adapt their musical style to a more modern sound which you can hear through the likes of Beasts Of The Northern Wild, Pursuit Special and Fleur de Sledgehammer.

The sludgy surroundings opens the music to violent blasts of Thrash Metal along the way with a highly energetic style of Post-Doom, Ambient Rock and Post-Rock which perhaps makes this the band’s most mature record to date especially musically speaking. The vocals and lyrics have a more reflective energy to them when compared to their previous records. Esox Lucifer throws a few curveballs along the way with 10,000 Years moving into Shoegaze territory which allows lead vocalist Alex Risberg to deliver some startling and emotionally charged vocals along the way.

This record still features the same intense and action packed sounds the band made their names with but this record allows 10,000 Years to constantly evolve onto greater musical heights especially when the Psychedelic and Cosmic passages appear that holds everything together. The soulful Ambient themes become more gloomier on tracks such as Church Of The Red Museum, Alien Tactics and Esox Lucifer. There seems to be an unwavering intent of Progressive Metal energy that becomes more part of the action of the later stages of the record. 

The production values are superbly realized with a sound that’s both crisp and quietly distorted which allows the band to explore different musical sounds they haven’t experienced before. This is still a band who revel in creating Sludge/Stoner Metal mayhem but why not add some standout Psychedelic and Post-Stoner grooves along the way which 10,000 Years pull off with great style and full commitment from start to finish. 

Esox Lucifer is perhaps the next musical and creative evolution from 10,000 Years which should hopefully catapult them onto bigger and greater things from the confinements of the heavy underground scene. They have the songs, talent and creative vision to move onto the next level of their musical careers and this record is a testament to that fact. This is an outstanding record on every singular level. 

10,000 Years have delivered another album of the year contender in their already impressive discography. If this is your first time to their highly destructive world then be prepared for a true masterclass of modern day Sludge/Stoner Metal.

Words by Steve Howe

Thanks to Purple Sage PR for the promo.

Esox Lucifer is available to buy now via Ripple Music (LP/CD/digital)

Links

Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram

Introduce Yourselves: ROTTERDAM

What Is the Name of Your Band?

Rotterdam

What Is the genre of music you play?

We play a mix of Doom, Stoner Metal, Grunge and alternative

Can you give a brief history of the band of how it came together and where it is today? 

Formed in 2020 by lifelong friends Brenden Massa (vocals, bass) and Wyatt Slanec (guitar). The lineup was later rounded out by drummer Ian Poole, formerly of the viral Deathcore band Defiler. 

After pouring the highs and lows of the past few years into their music, the band headed to Earthtone Studios in Sacramento, CA, to record with engineer Patrick Hill (King Woman, Oromet). 

The result — Falling In Vertigo — was released in March 2026.

What can people expect from your music?

People can expect a journey of light and heavy sound, melodies and emotions from beginning to end

What is the best release that folks should check out from your band?

Our debut album- Falling In Vertigo

Where can people find you on Social Media?

LinkTree

GRIN - Fuller (Single Review)

Release Date: July 24th 2026. Record Label: The Lasting Dose Records. Formats: DD

Fuller - Tracklist

Fuller

Lineup

S. Oberg – Bass Guitar

J. Oberg – Drums, Vocals

Review

Sludge/Doom/Stoner Metallers GRIN return with this cool heavy little new number called Fuller. This track features a heavier and distorted sound from GRIN that has a murkier Industrial presence compared to their acclaimed 2025 album Acid Gods. The song still keeps with GRIN’s trademark style of broken melodies and beat-up grooves that merge the heavier Stoner Metal themes with great precision.

There’s a slight Punk Rock sound that develops in the backgrounds with Sabine’s bass guitar having an experimental presence whilst Jan’s vocals and drumming having a more aggressive drive which makes for superb beautiful carnage when they fully join creative focus together. There’s some frantic instrumental sludgy solos forming along the way which shows quite a different Post-Metal dynamic that GRIN have applied before.

Even the sonic and psychedelic movements that appeared on GRIN’s previous releases have been kept to a bare minimum and only make an appearance towards the end of the song. It’s good to see GRIN trying new things with their music and with the promise of a new album in 2027 then we know the band are fully cooking on gas in delivering some finely tuned and pissed off Sludge Metal sounds of the highest order.

Words by Steve Howe

Links 

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Swedish Sludge Metal Trio FIREBREATHER to release new album "Blood That I Spill Turns To Fire" on Heavy Psych Sounds, first track streaming!

Swedish sludge metallers FIREBREATHER have signed to Heavy Psych Sounds Records for the October 16th release of their new full-length "Blood That I Spill Turns to Fire", and premiere the title track via Doomed & Stoned today!

Check out new track Blood That I Spill Turns To Fire

Firebreather formed in Gothenburg in 2016, rooted in crushing, sludge-doused doom from the very beginning. Never wavering from that commitment across all three of their incendiary full-length releases, the trio has pursued weight with purpose, not as spectacle, nor as an exercise in excess, but as the only language broad enough to hold the emotional reach and sonic heft of their sound.

The music arrives in a way that writes itself with no distance between the words and the sound; they rise from the same cursed ground, and that honesty has become the band's defining force.
Firebreather is a band that never postures or asks to be admired for their heaviness- and to see them live is to experience exactly why. Their weight takes on another life entirely. The band’s towering tone and consuming grit don't fill a room so much as alter it. Volume presses against the body before the first lyric lands and riffs arrive like shifting earth. The drums don't drive the songs forward; they anchor them while the line between sound and physical force begins to disappear.

Years spent crossing Europe and North America have only sharpened that purpose, and a decade on with a fourth album on the way via the notorious Heavy Psych Sounds Records, Firebreather remains exactly where it belongs. Head down. Volume up.

New album "Blood That I Spill Turns to Fire"
Out October 16th on Heavy Psych Sounds (LP/CD/digital)

FIREBREATHER is

Mattias Nööjd - Vox/guitar
Jacob Madetoja - Bass
Joakim Olsson - Drums

FIREBREATHER links

Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram

HEAVY PSYCH SOUNDS links

Website | Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | Youtube

Thanks to Purple Sage PR for the details.