Greengoat - A.I. (Album Review)

Release Date: 26th January 2024. Record Label: Argonauta Records. Formats: CD/DD

A.I. - Tracklisting

1.Void

2.The Seed (Remastered)

3.A.I. (Remastered)

4.Human

5.Awake

6.Naraka I

7.Naraka II

8.Burn the End

Members

Ivan Flores - Voice/Guitars

Ruth Moya - Drums/Lyrics

Review

A.I. is the new album from Psych Doom/Stoner Metal duo Greengoat and as the album title states, this is a concept album about the awakening of Artificial Intelligence. The album opens with a cold introductory opening song called Void which explores the 3 Laws Of Robotics from legendary Science Fiction writer Isaac Asimov. The spoken word passage is told across a Psychedelic and Ambient Post-Doom/Post-Rock sound that has a clinical Electronic sound which allows the song to feel slightly longer than its initial two minutes plus runtime.

Second song The Seed (Remastered) is a sludgy offering with Industrial sounding rhythms which matches to the A.I. attitude and creative exploration of the album. The grooves are quite metallic with flashes of Post-Rock/Post-Stoner energy with Ivan’s vocals having a slight Alt-Rock twinge to them. The song is quite slow-paced to begin with but soon finds its own vision when the heavier moments appear which sends Greengoat into heavier realms. The record itself does have an unapologetic style of production values which allows the whole record to be quite cynical at the best of times but equally emotionally thrilling at the same time.

Third song A.I. (Remastered) opens with a Sludgy Southern Rock groove which allows Greengoat to offer a classic Grungier and Blues Rock aesthetic to the mix. Ivan’s vocals offer a different persona compared to the previous track which shows his true vocal range which he delivers time and time again on the album. The blistering drums from Ruth (who is also the lyricist for Greengoat) is catchy and downright aggressive whenever the mood calls for. Shades of Alice In Chains, UFOMAMMUT and YOB with even nods to BLACK SABBATH can be felt on this song alone and for the rest of the album.

The record is quite topical due to the creative subject matter of Artificial Intelligence. A.I. can most definitely be used for the greater good but it can also be used for more sinister purposes which this album highlights superbly well. You experience both sides of the argument whilst being treated to some epic tasty instrumental sludgy passages with a raw DOOMED OUT and PSYCHEDELIC attitude appearing on tracks such as Human, Awake and the sublime two-part track Naraka I and Naraka II which are perhaps my favourite tracks off the whole album.

The final song Burn The End allows Greengoat to explore a more organic sound which harks back to the classic 1990’s heyday of Stoner Rock/Metal with that stunning Prog Rock/Metal attitude that the record continuously explores even within the dying seconds of this track.

Greengoat are a highly intellectual and inventive band with the fantastic ideas, lyrics and mostly intense grooves they’ve delivered with A.I. Overall, A.I. is a brilliantly observed study into the use of modern technology which also offers sublime sounds from start to finish with a deeply engaging story to match.

Words by Steve Howe 

Thanks to Grand Sounds Promotion for the promo.

A.I. is available to buy now on CD/DD via Argonauta Records.

Links

Linktree | BandCamp

French psych rockers EMPTY FULL SPACE drop first ever single "Amnesia" From Upcoming New Album

From the depths of Paris' independent music scene emerges a new creative force that blends the roots of psychedelia, kraut-rock, and space rock. We are pleased to introduce Empty Full Space, a bold and young band ready to captivate the ears of anyone drawn to their music.

The band Empty Full Space consists of Nico (guitars, vocals), Flo (drums, backing vocals), Edgar (synthesizers, percussion), Antoine (bass), and Max (guitars). With just one year on the Parisian music scene but boasting dozens of vibrant performances, the band has drawn inspiration from legends like Hawkwind and Can, as well as contemporaries such as King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard, Osees and Maragda, to shape their unique vision of psychedelia, kraut-rock, and garage.

This Thursday, January 25th, Empty Full Space will unveil their debut single, "Amnesia", with the unwavering support of various international media such as Janis Media (FR), RockZone (ES), Doomed Nation (SL), Outlaws of the Sun (UK), and Doomed & Stoned (US). These indie medias join forces to accompany the band on their first step, immersing the listener in a fuzzy journey with layers of ethereal sounds, hypnotic rhythms, and introspective lyrics.

"Amnesia" serves as the first single into their debut album, 'From the Limbo' of with a release scheduled fo March 20, 2024, through Spinda Records. This inaugural musical offering from Empty Full Space was recorded between Heat Studios and Pain de Mie Studio - both located in France - by Pierre Dessauny and Djibee, respectively. The subsequent mixing and mastering took place at Fuzzface Studio in Scotland, helmed by Jason Shaw.

'From the Limbo' will be available on all streaming platforms, as well as in compact disc format and a double vinyl edition, limited to 200 copies in purple and 100 copies in standard black - both part of Spinda Records' 'Trippy Series' alongside releases from Moura, The Silver Linings, or Moundrag. Pre-orders will start at midnight on Thursday, January 25, through spindarecords.com and the Andalusian label's Bandcamp.

Follow Empty Full Space on Facebook and Instagram for exclusive updates and insights into the creation of their debut album.

TRACKLIST

1. From The Limbo
2. Morphogene
3. The Wheel
4. Amnesia
5. Have you seen the witch?
6. 2C

First single: 25/01
Pre-order: 25/01
Album release: 20/03

Formats:

* digital
* compact disc
* vinyl

Thanks to Spinda Records for all of the details. 

BREATHS - Melt Away (EP Review)

Release Date: 19th January 2024. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD

Melt Away - Tracklisting

fade apart

barbarella (melt away)

waves

shaken

Review

Alternative/Doomgaze/Post-Metallers BREATHS are back with their new EP Melt Away which serves as a preview of their upcoming full length album. Melt Away is a collection of haunting and emotionally charged sounds that sees BREATHS move across the Post-Metal spectrum with moments of Doomgaze, Grunge and a healthy does of Post-Black Metal distortion witin the EP's heaviest moments. It's been a while since I've ventured into BREATHS creative world and I've forgotten how wonderfully complex their music can actually be. Drawing influences upon bands such as Deftones, Spotlights Deafheaven, Cult Of Luna and Russian Circles with a passionate outlook across over musical sounds such as Grunge and Alt Metal. 

The four tracks that make up Melt Away lasts for over sixteen minutes in length with BREATHS merging the Post-Blackened/Doomgaze grooves with the more mellower Alt Rock and Post-Rock sounds of the EP. There's a lush vocal delivery being sung throughout each song even when the moody environment transpires to be more Sludge/Post-Metal orientated.

The production values are quite unapologetic with it's aggressive and raw sounding moments but BREATHS brings a 1980's and 1990's Alt Rock perspective to the EP. The use of different Ambient textures really shines through and comes alive on the standout tracks of barbarella (melt away) and waves with a classic GRUNGE aspect being played against a flurry of down-tuned sludgy guitars and trippy psychedelic elements. 

Melt Away could have maybe used one final longer track to draw all the different sounds, creative ideas and heavy themes together for final push of aggression. However, that hasn't stopped BREATHS delivering a powerful and emotionally charged release which has got myself excited for the upcoming full length album. 

Words by Steve Howe 

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Exciting Updates from Doom/Stoner Rockers The Magpie: New Video, Maryland Doomfest, and Road Break!

We are delighted to announce the release of the  new video for "The Sleepy Eye," a track from the Firelight Records debut last fall. 

Vocalist/guitarist Erik Sugg states, “The song began with a Flipper-esque bassline courtesy of Mike Deloatch. We built on his idea, added a lot of fuzz and heavy, atmospheric dynamics, and created something that’s both introspective and expansive.” Dive into the mesmerizing visuals and immersive sounds that characterize The Magpie's unique style. Click the above video link and let the journey begin!

Maryland Doomfest 2024: Invitation to Perform

It is with great honor and excitement that we share the news of The Magpie being invited to perform at the prestigious 2024 Maryland Doomfest! Save the date, and join us for an unforgettable experience of heavy vibes and sonic exploration.

Road Jaunt with Crystal Spiders: Raleigh, Richmond, Baltimore

Pack your bags and get ready for a road trip! The Magpie is hitting the road alongside the Crystal Spiders for a series of shows in Raleigh, Richmond, and Baltimore from Feb 8-10. Brace yourselves for an electric atmosphere and a night filled with heavy stoner-psych grooves.

Firelight Records Debut: Well-Received and Available!

The Firelight Records debut has garnered positive reviews, with Clean and Sober Stoner noting, "The Magpie has unleashed a challenging album that is well worth delving into." The album is available via mail order, and you can also grab a copy at their upcoming performances. Immerse yourself in the intricate craftsmanship of their sound.

What the Critics are Saying:

"Every aspect of this release is carefully crafted, from the incredibly unique vocal delivery to the overall use of guitars to generate atmosphere and not take the spotlight off anything else." - CLEAN AND SOBER STONER

"The music is quite riff-centric with The Magpie exploring many different styles and themes within the Heavy Rock underground arena." - OUTLAWS OF THE SUN

“Leaves you questioning your senses for a minute. Drips slowly into your system, filling you with hallucinogenic effects that don’t start infecting you until the last minute.” - WKNC

Links:

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Doom/Sludge/Stoner Metallers WE FOLLOW THE EARTH Premiere New Song THE HUNTER From Upcoming New Album EXTINCT

Band Bio

Originally started as a simple project between brothers, Matthew Crotts and Robert Crotts. Matthew wrote and performed all of the music/vocals, while Robert wrote the story/concept/lyrics. After months of writing, what emerged was the debut album »Lightbearer« in March 2023 – a heavy combination of thick guitars and pulsating synths which, over the course of five tracks follows the journey and eventual horror of an astronaut who awakens to find that he is the sole survivor on a derelict ship, barreling through space.

Three months later, writing began for a second album. Once again, with Matthew writing all of the music, and Robert conceptualizing the lyrics. The material took shape quickly, evolving from the atmospheric doomy vibes of »Lightbearer«, to a more straight-forward, in-your-face onslaught of pummelling riffs.

We Follow The Earth is:

Matthew Crotts – Guitars/Vocals

Matthew Pickard – Bass

Matt Osburn – Drums

While Robert Crotts doesn’t have a presence on-stage, he is very much an integral piece, and a behind-the-scenes member of the band.

The Lowdown About EXTINCT

"Extinct" is a crushingly heavy fantasy piece from start to finish. A 6 track concept album which tells the story of a Cyclops chieftain discovering that his entire tribe has been murdered and vowing revenge. Every track is an experiment on how to get heavier than the last.It starts with a slow intro, which lulls the listener into a sense of calm, then the music kicks in and hits you like a brick wall. From there it never lets up, save for a short reprieve on the third track which will give the listener a chance to take a breath, but it is short lived and the pummelling wall of sound picks up right where it left off."Extinct" was recorded and produced by Jamie King, and will be released March 1st, 2024.

Desert Bloom PR have kindly agreed for ourselves to host the premiere for their stunning new song The Hunter.

Here's what the band say about the upcoming new album: 

"The new album, "Extinct", is a concept album which tells the story of a Cyclops chieftain discovering that his entire tribe has been murdered and vowing revenge. In "The Hunter", the hero meets someone who shares his goal.

This is a turning point in the story, so musically I wanted a change of pace from the rest of the album. You don't often hear punk or hardcore beats in doom, but it was the foundation of this song. From the start, I went in to writing this song with the idea that it would be more upbeat, while still making it as heavy as it could possibly be." - Matthew Crotts

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Extinct will be available to buy on Digital Download from March 1st 2024.

Thanks to Desert Bloom PR for all of the details.

Cloud Of Souls - A Constant State Of Flux (Album Review)

Release Date: 16th February 2024. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD

A Constant State Of Flux - Tracklisting

A Constant State Of Flux

Better Than I Was

Homewrecker Blues

Love To Forgive, Wish To Forget

Break Down The Door

Members

Chris Latta - Vocals, bass, acoustic guitar, keyboards on outro of 4

Cicatrix - Keyboards, electric guitar, drums

Jessie Browne-Michaels - saxophone on 4

Review

A Constant State Of Flux is the second full length album from Doom Metallers Cloud Of Souls and it's quite a departure from their 2023 release A Fate Decided. Where that album was powered by a style of Blackened Doom and Heavy Metal, their new album is perhaps more of a dramatic shift into Post-Rock, Post-Doom, Prog Rock, Psych Rock, Chamber Music, and even Folk Rock. The album is deliberately slow paced and is inspired by bands such as 40 WATT SUN, NOTHING, PINK FLOYD and OPETH. This allows A Constant State Of Flux to be it's very own thing with it's emotionally charged vocals, long drawn out Post-Doom/Post-Rock rhythms and an OTT storytelling element appearing within the lyrics. 

The excellent two opening tracks of A Constant State Of Flux and Better Than I Was perfectly conjure up stories of different raw human emotions which the subtle vocals from Chris Latta (Spirit Division and Lavaborne) fully shine through. Chris Latta's vocals are quite distinctive with a certain Patrick Walker influence appearing but with an Americana or Journeyman spirit allowing Chris to have a true storytelling persona throughout the album. The music is bleak and consistently gloomy with moments of Chamber Folk, Shoegaze, Post-Rock and Slowcore combining for a challenging but deeply rewarding style of music especially within the long drawn out extended instrumental sounds that appear within the opening two tracks.

The album moves through a varied style of different themes on the other songs with Homewrecker Blues and Love To Forgive, Wish To Forget drawing upon moments of Blues Rock, Classic Doom and even a twinge of Acoustic based sounds on the mellower parts of the album. There's a twinge of Electrical guitars that appear within the final two tracks of Love To Forgive, Wish To Forget and Break Down The Door. However, they're not true DOOM METAL but a more subdued style of Post-Doom that fans of 40 WATT SUN, WARNING and even Pallbearer can appreciate. 

Chris is joined along for this creative journey by Cicatrix and Jessie Browne-Michaels who make sure that Chris isn't alone for this soulful and gloomy journey into the darker depths of the Slowcore abyss. The album can be quite SHOEGAZE in places but the sheer cinematic style of emotionally charged Prog Rock/Post-Doom grooves will no doubt impress many folks within the underground Doom Rock/Metal scene where Chris Latta already has a loyal and dedicated following which I consider myself apart of,

A Constant State Of Flux won't be for everyone but if you're in the mood for a record that pulls hard on the heartstrings which also delivers an emotionally complex record then this album is for you. This is an absolutely majestic and beautifully weird sounding release that is another sublime record from Cloud Of Souls.

Words by Steve Howe 

Thanks to Chris Latta for the promo.

A Constant State Of Flux will be available to buy on DD from February 16th 2024.

Links

BandCamp

Swedish Psych Rockers, NEPAL DEATH, Release New Single 'She Demon'

The Musical Collective of Nepal Death ­now unleash their latest sonic story upon the world. "She Demon (The Exorcism of the ­Rakshasi)" will take you on a mind-­bending trip spanning over nine ­glorious minutes.

The song echoes the rhythms of The Rolling Stones' ­"Sympathy for the Devil" and the vibes of Primal Scream’s "Movin' on Up". Feel the trippy seventies, featuring psychedelic guitars, infectious basslines, drum grooves, magical flute melodies, bells, singing bowls and massive choirs. The lyrics draw inspiration from Hindu legends of the Rakshasi-demons wielding supernatural powers for evil acts. Picture fierce beings with flaming red eyes and hair, savoring the scent of human flesh.

Listen on Spotify HERE.
Watch on YouTube HERE or watch below:

"Embark on a cosmic odyssey with 'She Demon' - Our tribute to '70s psychedelia, blending the eerie with the energetic. Picture fierce Rakshasi demons and join us in this nine-minute sonic journey featuring amazing guest artists. It's more than a song; it's a direct line to the cosmic vibrations of fierce demons!" - says the band.

She Demon is written and performed by Nepal Death, ­featuring guest ­artists Pontus Torstensson ­(Exorcist GBG/Tentakel), Lisa Isaksson (Second Oracle/Me And My Kites), and Anders Kjellberg (Fontän/Tross).

­Recorded at Studio Katakomb, Kali Kitchen Studios and ­Konrad Tönz Klangwerk.
Released by Kali Psyche Records.
Mixed and mastered by Mikael ­Andersson at Soundport ­Music.
Artwork painted by ­enigmatic ­psychedelic performance artist Zephyr Wycorn

Imagine a transcendent 1972 VW bus speeding down The Hippie Trail. The musical collective of Nepal Death embodies the spirit of free love, peace vibes, and wild music against the enigmatic backdrop of death goddess Kali. Their music invites you to ponder the metamorphosis that awaits beyond the mystical destination of Kathmandu.

For more info:

www.facebook.com/nepaldeath
www.instagram.com/nepaldeath
www.nepaldeath.com

Thanks to Grand Sounds Promotion for the details