Drug Cult – Drug Cult

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Drug Cult’s self-titled first release comes fully formed like a seasoned veteran band hitting it’s creative peak.  Guitars grind and wail on opening track Serpent Therapy as if they are awakening from a long slumber before finally hitting a groove above two and half minutes into the song.  The Wall is the absolute highlight of the album that breaks open with lumbering riff that seems to gain steam like a charging elephant.  The song contains a sweet hook that nearly turns the song into a hummable tune.   

The tone and feel of the album is very much set through the production, especially with the sound of Aasha Tozer’s voice weaving with the guitars and frequently rising above the fuzz.  It has the vintage feel of an Electric Wizard album with a cleaner sound and without the movie clips.  Bloodstone late in the album seems to capture that drugged out feel that I think the album is attempting to convey.  Hearing Tozer hypnotically repeat “Blood is the drug I have been searching for… I want more” creates a chilly soundscape unique to the album.  My guess is that this album will show up on many “best of” lists coming our way in a couple months.

#RiffTakes

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Hot takes on new and recent releases as well as some that we just discovered.

Jesus Piece – Only Self

Philly hardcore band’s much anticipated first full-length does not disappoint.  Dense production and multiple influences elevate this album above the standard hardcore fare.  Only Self firmly establishes Jesus Piece as the standard-bearer of the new generation of hardcore bands.

Deathbell – With The Beyond

French doom band that absolutely kills it on their first release.  Soaring female vocals float over huge riffs.  If Windhand is your thing, pick up this release right away.

Potion – Women Of The Wand

Doom three piece out of Sydney, Australia adds some big guitar solos and psych flair to the fuzzed-out riffs.  Two excellent singles released so far.

Shadowmaster – Shadowmaster

Cinematic doom metal in the vein of Electric Wizard or Ramesses.  Hypnotic riffs awash in swirling cymbals punctured by tortured, distorted vocals.

Vuil – Hell

Old school thrash out of Scotland takes us back to the early 80’s packing plenty of speed and riffs.  The band channels Motorhead on the ferocious track Hellracer.