Reg's Top 20 of 2013

As we enter a new year, we reflect back on some of the best releases of the past year. Everyone has their favorites, many of which show up on multiple lists. We have the unique opportunity at Heavy Planet to hear some of the best independent and underground bands from around the world as well as some of the more popular artists we love and enjoy. Some of these albums may come as a pleasant surprise to many of you, and many will be of no surprise at all, especially in my case with three of my all-time favorite bands putting out a release in 2013. So here it is, in all it's ear-gratifying glory, my Top 20 albums of 2013.

20. Weed is Weed-Blunt Force Trauma

After seeing these guys perform at the Borracho "Smokin" Brown Ale" release show in DC last spring, I have had this album in heavy rotation. Tasty riffing, doomy grooves and gruff vocal barking from Dave Sherman (Earthride) provides the backbone for this album about what else, weed. It also marks the reunion of Gary Isom and the aforementioned Dave Sherman, both from Spirit Caravan. Tracks such as "Weed is Weed", "Low To No", and "Big Green Patch" are highlights of this killer, soon to be legendary stoner doom record. Look for it's re-release by Ripple Music sometime this year (hopefully on Green vinyl).

19. Orchid-Mouths of Madness

The last release "Capricorn" from Orchid was my number one album of 2011, now it is 2013 and these dudes from San Francisco keep laying on the 70's Sabbath-influenced jams. Possibly the most prolific new doom rock band to come out in the past few years, they have inspired a new legion of fledgling bands to follow in their footsteps. Great riffs, awesome retro feel and precise delivery. Personally, I have to say that I love this band.

18. Monster Magnet-Last Patrol

Sure, Monster Magnet goes down in the books as one of my favorite bands of all-time and if it were not for all of the remaining albums on this list, "Last Patrol" would have probably been ranked much higher. The band returned primarily to it's roots providing a more vintage sound and a less "commercial" hard rock sound. This album is more psychedelic and atmoshperic than their previous few efforts and provides a more trippy vibe. I can dig it.

17. Arrowhead-Atomsmasher

This three-piece from Australia is stoner rock in the truest sense of the genre. Warm and fuzzy guitar tones, seventies psychedelics, doomy riffs and a steady groove glisten amongst tight melodies. Reminescent of such luminaries as Dozer, Lowrider and Truckfighters. Don't let this one pass you by.

16. Beelzefuzz-Beelzefuzz

Harkening back to a bygone era, the seventies were possibly the best time for hard rock music. Beelzefuzz has managed to capture that sound. While not your typical doom, the music does have a doomy feel but is more in the hard rock variety. Great melodies, tight musicianship and a vocalist that for some reason reminds me of Michael Kiske of Helloween fame makes this one a winner.

15. Lumbar-The First and Last Days of Unwelcome

Facing a daily battle with Multiple Sclerosis, Aaron Edge (Himsa) poured out his heart, soul and emotion onto this record. With the help of Mike Scheidt (YOB) and Tad Doyle (TAD) how could you go wrong? The riffs are gigantic and the tone is merciless. Intense, vile and grim sludgy doom... just the way I like it.

14. Sons of Huns-Banishment Ritual

This is my pick for the album that basically just kicks your ass. Portland, Oregon has recently become a hotbed for great music and with the release of "Banishment Ritual", Sons of Huns has firmly cemented a place in my top 20. From 70's inspired super-bluesy doom riffs to sonic blasts of stoner metal fury, there isn't a bad one in the bunch. The vocals lie somewhere between Brian Connolly of The Sweet and J. D. Cronise from The Sword. Each time I listen, I feel my beard getting thicker and thicker.

13. Paissano-Paissano

While I was on vacation this past spring, Seth did a "New Band To Burn One To" on this band in my absence. Ever since I have been hooked. Hailing from Argentina, this full-length from Paissano is an addictive hard-driving blast of fuzz-fueled stoner metal. Thanks for this one Seth.

12. Stoned Cobra-High and Mighty

An awesome psyche-tinged stoner doom band isn't something that you would typically find in the state of Alabama, at least one without a glimmer of southern sludge, but Stoned Cobra came as quite a surprise. Slow chugging rhythms, mind-bending psychedelics and a vocalist with great chops. From soft balladry to heavy as fuck pummelling, these guys found the right balance to make one hell of a record. 

High and Mighty indeed!

11. Earthless-From the Ages

The last time Earthless released an album was in 2007 with the classic "Rhythms from a Cosmic Sky", a year before Heavy Planet made its internet debut. Well all I have to say is it is about damn time. For those of us that have patiently waited for this release, many like myself were not disappointed. Personally, I am a huge fan of instrumental albums and the great thing about Earthless is that their music demonstrates a huge emotional connection with the listener. The musicianship is once again stellar and the songs just ebb and flow with key precision and timing. So freakin' amazing!

10. Black Rainbows-Holy Moon EP

One of my wife's favorite bands has quickly become one of my favorites as well. And why not, this "EP" is a perfect representation of what is so great about this genre of music. Hailing from Rome, Italy, the band rages on with breathtaking psychedelic freakout soloing, face-melting fuzziness and a kick-ass groove to boot.

09. Switchblade Jesus-Switchblade Jesus

Oh hell yeah, my buds from Corpus Christi, Texas finally released their debut album and what a killer album it is. Don't let the intro fool you folks, this is one scorcher of a record. Great riffing with a southern swagger and a groove, dare I say, the size of Texas. Stand up and take notice because Switchblade Jesus is kicking ass and taking names. Vinyl coming sometime in 2014.

08. Egypt-Become the Sun

This album came out way back in January of 2013 and I tucked it away so I wouldn't forget about it which I tend to do with releases early in the year. This is such a great rock record. The mega-riffing and gruff vocals from this Fargo, ND band will stick to your ribs on a cold and snowy night. Unfortunately, I missed out on my vinyl copy of this release. By the way, they also released a killer split with one of my all-time favs Wo Fat called "Cyclopean Riffs". You should check that one out as well.

07. Summoner-Atlantian

The sophmore effort from this Boston-based band under the Summoner moniker is full of strong song structures, swirling psychedelics and chest-crushing riffs which captivate and obliterate as you are guided through this epic and mighty journey. This album is the perfect follow-up to the band's critically-acclaimed full-length "Phoenix" released in 2012. Vinyl is the way to go on this one, you'll thank me.

06. Tumbleweed Dealer-Tumbleweed Dealer

Opening track "Opiates" is hands down my favorite song of the year. That song is the perfect introduction of what to expect on this intense and brooding instrumental masterpiece. The perfect album to put on headphones and chill-out to.

05. Vista Chino-Peace

Finding the right words to say why you like an album can sometimes be a daunting task, whether it is was because you were expecting something different or you were so knocked off your feet that you were at a loss for words. This album for me is a little bit of both. For one, I was expecting something a bit heavier. Secondly, some songs on this album are just so damn good. Primarily speaking, "Adara", "Still Remain" and "Barcelonian". Sure, this album is still heavy, but in a different way. The intense vibe and song build-up is more vibrant and song-writing is just superb, Garcia's vocals are as good as ever and Brant Bjork's drumming is so fluid. Bruno does a tremendous job and Nick provides a solid bass line. 

That's enough, just enjoy.

04. Borracho-Oculus

I had the opportunity to meet these fine gentlemen and had the pleasure of seeing them play live on a few occasions this past year. After hearing them play the songs live, I couldn't wait to hear them on record. We were even given the opportunity to have the exclusive stream of this gem back in July. These guys in my opinion are one of the premier bands in the land and "Oculus" just blew me away.

03. Supervoid-Filaments

One of the shows that I was referring to in the Borracho script also included this band from my backyard. This five-piece progressive studge metal band from Pittsburgh, PA blew my mind as well. It was not until the second time I saw them that I had mentioned to a few of my fellow Heavy Planet compadres, that were also in attendence that these guys would sound awesome on record. They agreed, and Supervoid did not disappoint.

02. Black Sabbath-13

While the album was maybe a tad bit over-produced and didn't capture the "sound" that I was expecting and was a bit dissappointed to see Bill Ward not partake, the album still had plenty of great songs and masterful riffing. I could probably write a book on what is good and bad about this album, but I don't want to bore anyone. Black Sabbath will always be my favorite band. This is primarily a nostalgic ranking and if not for a primo release by the next band this would have been number one.

01. Clutch-Earth Rocker

Well, would you expect anything else? It is no surprise that this was my number one album of the year. How many bands can actually go on tour and play just about every song off of a new album and have their fans not give a shit because it was so damn good. That takes balls. This was an amazing album throughout and the band still impresses with their live performance each and every time. 

Thank you Clutch!!

Nuclear Dog's Atomic List - Favorite LPs of 2013

It was, by all accounts, a great year for underground metal, for music with heft and edges. There were new releases from stalwart veterans that were met with great anticipation, as well as releases from the dark reaches of the unknown, generating surprise, excitement, and relish. There were top LPs and top EPs as well as favorite songs. There were even a few releases from the pioneers of stoner/doom rock, although none are listed here. For what it's worth these are the 2013 releases that I feel earned my respect as the very best representation of what I like to think of as TRUE rock, set up as three separate lists - Favorite LPs, Favorite EPs, Favorite Songs. It's a lot, I know, but it was a large year musically, the kind of year that maybe doesn't happen too often, so I felt inclined to be indulgent, effectively listing the top 40 albums of the year and then my favorite songs, which happen to number 26. Several great albums and songs aren't even listed. There are very few in my lists that bang up against those of my Heavy Planet brethren, so indulgent these lists may be, but at the same time they are all deserving of the spotlight, all worthy of your time, all worthwhile investments, all delivering supreme joy and deep satisfaction. I hope you can find either agreement or discovery in what follows.
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NUCLEAR DOG'S TOP LPs of 2013

The world of underground metal in the form of Stoner, Doom, Sludge, Psychedelica, Blues Rock, Desert Rock, Retro Rock, and the many fine conglomerations is unlike anything I've experienced in my five plus decades. There are thousands of quality bands releasing hundreds of quality albums each year, and while almost none of it is mainstream, it is a vital and healthy worldwide cultural phenomenon. The best of any given year is not always an obvious given, not because nothing is deserving, but because most of it is. Nonetheless, here are the 20 LPs I declare as the best of the calendar that has just passed us by.

20. Orchid - "The Mouths of Madness" - Nuclear Blast

One of the most prolific new bands of Stoner/Retro ilk is the magnificent Orchid who early in the year released an album of new, original material with "The Mouths of Madness", while the end of the year brought us "The Zodiac Sessions" consisting of newly remastered songs from their 2009 EP "Through the Devil's Doorway" together with their 2011 LP "Capricorn". The remastered songs on "The Zodiac Sessions" are incredible, clean, deep, and heavy. But, the new LP "The Mouths of Madness" showcase the band's highly evolved ability to craft and execute guitar driven melodies of high quality, continuing a standard they themselves have set and that is not easily matched.



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19. Devil to Pay - "Fate is Your Muse" - Ripple Music

The tagline on Devil to Pay's Facebook page is "It's all about the riffs, man." and this Indianapolis foursome deliver a beautifully low, heavy brand of riffs, combined with superb songcraft and complemented by vocals that are intiguingly unique.



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18. Kylesa - "Ultraviolet" - Season of Mist

Multifaceted and just flat out fun this treasure trove of fuzz and mind bending experiences exhilarates from beginning to end, filling the void with masterful melodies and deep, crunchy guitars. Kylesa are one of the veterans of heavy metal and continue to exhibit growth and adeptness in their ability to craft intelligent rock music.



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17. Luder - "Adelphophagia" - Small Stone Records

A Detroit foursome of members from other bands who come together to create uniqueness in the low tones and heavy rumble of stoner rock by applying the sublimity of deep riffs with the sweetness of what many call a shoegaze sound normally targeted for a more 'indie' audience. And it works mightily, as this collection of steady, stoner, steamrollers blow through on a wave of power and grace.



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16. Elevators to the Grateful Sky - "Cloud Eye" - Transubstans Records

Every year there is an album or two that seemingly come from out of nowhere, albums from bands I quite likely have never heard before, which for me is easy as I'm quite new to the treasures of underground fuzz. The disparity in most end of year lists speaks to the diversity and incredible quality of underground metal of the stoner/doom/retro species, so it seems natural that an album will fly under the radar from time to time. One such album is "Cloud Eye" from Palermo, Italy's Elevators to the Grateful Sky. It's full of varied yet consistent, insistent low tuned riffs, laser beam solos, pummeling drumwork, and groundshaking bass, all wrapped tightly around highly intelligent melodies and delivered with tons of energy and enthusiasm.



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15. All Them Witches - "Lightning at the Door" 

In all likelihood your list has this album much closer to number 1 than I do, but, regardless, All Them Witches have managed to release one of the year's best albums two years running. This year it's "Lightning at the Door" which is as apt a description of the contents as can be had in four words. The guitars in this album are, to understate it horribly, lively, exploding in blues rock power and reverberating in deep, gargantuan riffs of massive amplitude. There always seems to be something new each spin through on this album of intrigue and craft.



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14. Gozu - "Fury of a Patient Man" - Small Stone Records

Owner of the year's best album title, Gozu are quite an interesting study in their approach to the music of retro/stoner rock. The deep, low riffs are there in fuzzy spades, as deliver a double whammy of intriguingly unique vocals and brilliantly crafted melodies, setting Gozu apart as easily recognizable and instantly enjoyable.



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13. Arrowhead - "Atomsmasher" - Von Grimm Records

Arrowhead are a three member stoner band from Sydney, Australia who just flat out crank high energy, high voltage tunes on "Atomsmasher", brandishing lethal guitars, unrelenting stickwork, piledriving bass, and blue chip vocals on melodies that never tire or succumb to gimmicky repetitions. Spinning this album is an adrenaline rush of megawatt proportions.



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12. Kadavar - "Abra Kadavar" - Nuclear Blast

On the heels of their wildly successful debut album in 2012 Kadavar follow up with another ten incher, chock full of hard driving, guitar laden retro rock of the finest variety, heavy on well crafted melodies, haunting vocals, and those ever present, relentless guitars.



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11. Exporting White Elephants - "Organic Raw"

This unique two piece band from Santiago, Chile combine cleverly crafted songs, ragged, rich vocals, and ten tons of fuzz delivered through dual rhythm instrumentation of bass and drums, foregoing the standard six string guitars of almost every rock band that is or ever was . . . and it not only works but is impeccably delicious.



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The top ten albums, my favorites for the year, are all exceptional. More than half of these are interchangeable, meaning their placement isn't necessarily an indictment of their quality either way. The first four placings, though, represent the strength of my bond with those albums, placed carefully in the order of my internal importance. Some of these albums will appear much higher on other's lists, some won't appear at all. My tastes run to stoner fuzz and retro power, so doom and sludge are not represented much, while psychedelic tendencies tend to coincide with retro metal, and even occasionally on predominantly stoner collections.

There are 3 things that place these albums at the top of the list, all three being quite obvious tendencies we all look for in our music - super strong guitar ( always the starting point ), interesting vocals ( awe inspiring vocals will tend to place it higher ), and exceptional melody ( a must have ). But it goes much deeper. The guitar has to dominate. The vocals must inspire. The melodies must be timeless and endlessly fascinating. When it's all put together the result is an exceptional, phenomenal experience for the ages. Here are ten albums that do just that.

10.  Lint - "Existence"

A threepiece powerhouse from Wollongong, New South Wales, Oz who throw down fuzz laden riffs of intense psychedelic potency, focusing mostly on instrumental influences tempered by imaginative vocal interludes.



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9. Bionic Cavemen - "Predator"

Slipping in at the end of the year this foursome from Chicago have crafted nine exceptional melodies that both instantly hit the pleasure nerve and as well as provide depth for new discovery on each subsequent spin. More retro than stoner, the guitars deliver unyielding power and ragged enjoyment, just as the vocals provide depth and intrigue. Bionic Cavemen describe their music as vintage heavy. They've nailed it.



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8. Brimstone Coven - "II" - STB Records

Wheeling, West Virginia's Brimstone Coven, a fearsome foursome who have crafted ten massive power ballads of immense propensity by laying in deep and mighty riffs, mesmerizing solos, unrelenting bass tremble, and wicked, surreal vocals. Their music is beautiful and haunting, mesmerizing and deeply satisfying as they take us on journeys of darkness, trepidation, and sinful pleasures.



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7. Vista Chino - "Peace" - Napalm Records

Much has been written, and more will surely follow, about the members of this band and another, as they all happened to set the underground world on fire twenty years ago, a fire that continues to burn in many ways. One of those ways was the perseverance and incredible tenacity of Brant Bjork and John Garcia to overcome assholes and loopholes to finally . . . FINALLY . . . release original music in the vein of the sound they helped create in the high desert air of their early adulthood. With the inspired addition of heretofore unknown guitarist Bruno Fevery, who delivers the fuzz riff with aplomb, the sublime song writing chops of Bjork, and the incomparable vocals of Garcia, Vista Chino deliver a truly phenomenal rock experience that is both fresh and satisfyinglty reminscent of the glorious sounds penetrating the crystal clear air of the Mojave.



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6. Clutch - "Earth Rocker" - Weathermaker Music

Veteran rockers Clutch released the monster album "Earth Rocker" and then proceeded to tour the world three times over. They actually came through my home state of Oklahoma 4 times on this tour. 4 TIMES!! These guys are the epitome of rock n roll. They likely make decent coin on what they do, but their motivation remains creating and sharing exceptional music, something they have aways done and thankfully still do. With one of the top vocalists in the history of rock and a unique brand of melody that pops and moves in ways unexplained, "Earth Rocker" is an album for the ages.



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5. Bedroom Rehab Corporation - "Red Over Red"

Another twosome consisting of drum and bass. Incredible. Incredible that this toothsome twosome from New London, Connecticut can make such phenomenally massive music. Released very early in the year it has hung around the entire twelve months getting spin time on my iPod and in my car due to the gargantuan, mammoth riffs created by the lone stringed instrument as well as the energetic, forceful drumwork that by default joins center stage, executing a dance sublime from this duet of fuzz.



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4. Sasquatch - "IV" - Small Stone Records

Keith Gibbs is a rocker through and through. On his rock and roll journey through life he has been joined by two more incomparable rockers in Jason Casanova and Rick Ferrante. They are veterans of the underground having now released four albums. But they are more than just veterans as the music they have put on display with all four albums can quite rightly be considered some of the best rock on display anywhere at any time. Consistency is part and parcel of what they create, but ingenuity places their music a cut above as the melodies are superb and the riffs phenomenal. Album four, aptly titled "IV", brought with it an extreme amount of anticipation, and delivered in spades. Familiar yet fresh, "IV" is another one for the ages.



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3. Hollow Leg - "Abysmal" - Last Anthem

This album is the kind that is instantly recognizable as pretty damn good. So you listen, and you enjoy. And when it comes time to spin something on the ride to work you choose it again, and you find that it's even better than maybe you recalled. And each time you spin it you realize it's pretty damn good, incredible, phenomenal. This one snuck up on me and continued to do so again and again like some kind of deja vu ninja, walloping me upside the head each play through. Originally I wanted to dismiss it as I'm not much of a fan of the rumble/grumble affectations many metal bands employ, but it didn't take long to realize these vocals are not such an affectation, instead are a brilliantly crafted and delivered addition to the monster guitars and explosive drums this Florida foursome have unleashed on the unsuspecting populace on this debut release. Keep your guard down and let them smack you upside the head, because an attack from Hollow Leg is worth it.



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2. Iron Man - "South of the Earth" - Rise Above Records

Iron Man are veterans of rock, with emphasis on veteran. They have been around making exquisite rock in one guise or another since the 80s. As with numerous metal bands the lineup changes have been more than a few, but when the lineup for this latest iteration of Iron Man was solidified and an album produced, lightning struck in the form of "South of the Earth". While they might likely be classified as more retro than stoner, certainly with melodies that hearken back to the greatest metal of the seventies and eighties, a deep and abiding low tuned monster permeates throughout the songs of this psychedelic retrograde juggernaut.

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1. Hot Lunch - "Hot Lunch" - Tee Pee Records

And now for the best of the best. Released in March and jumping to the top of my list immediately, nothing has knocked them from that perch in the months since. Hot Lunch align themselves with the skating communities of California, and have crafted a unique set of supremely rocking songs on this, their only album to date. It's not easy finding it as it's not even as mainstream as the underground rock floating around the stoner/doom sites we all frequent, but in keeping with the main mission of Heavy Planet, the unknown, unsigned bands are our passion. Hot Lunch is on Tee Pee Records but a quick tour of their site will show the priority for this exceptional band is not as high as perhaps it should be . . . in my humble opinion. It should be much easier to champion their cause because music like this does not come around nearly often enough.

The instrumentation on this album is a megaton dose of edgy energy and instinctual execution, with sublimely raw vocals delivering jumpstart melodies and two stroke rampage, wrapped tightly in a package of fierceness and joy. Kudos to this San Francisco foursome who are ferocious and mighty and have given us the best album of an exceptionally great musical year. Hot Lunch, you are Nuclear Dog's Favorite Album of 2013







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Nuclear Dog's Atomic List - Favorite EPs of 2013

NUCLEAR DOG'S TOP EPs of 2013

And another thing, many bands release so called 7 inch albums, or EPs, typically seven tracks or less. There are as many or more of these than of the LP variety, by bands just as varied between known and newcomer as those that release the longer track sets, with songs equally as awesome. Because there are more than just a few of these I wanted to list my favorite EPs separately from the LPs because it makes a nice category and gives me an excuse to expand my overall list to 40. Again, despite the long list, place it alongside anyone else in the blogosphere of fuzz and doom and there will be only a few matches. The world of True Rock is brilliantly wonderful, isn't it? So much to love, so much to enjoy, so much to treasure that it becomes almost overwhelming. Keep in mind that much of the music in the list below is free or very low priced on the links provided. It just does NOT get any better than this.

20. Windhand - "Soma" - Relapse Records

A favorite among many, it has slowly begun to grow on me and take hold. Haunting, deep doom from this Richmond, Virginia fivesome. It will grow on you, too, I have no doubt.



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19. Stonerfront Njimegen - "3-Days-Desert" - Fuzzmatazz Records

Beautiful stoner instrumental, fuzzy to a fault. Threepiece whose bandname comes from their hometown in the east of the Netherlands.



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18. Electric Ruin - "Electric Ruin"

Fivesome from Ontario, Canada. Crunchy, cranky, stoner rock with a retro vibe.



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17. Schloost - "Notch"

Great stoner sound from this foursome out of Piacenza, Italy.



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16. Liquid Silk - "Liquid Silk"

Retro, stoner grooves by this foursome out of Germany.



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15. Killer Moon - "Tunnel Vision"

Psychedelic, retro monsters from Chicago.



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14. Deaf Proof - "Beyond the Orange Door"

Impeccable stoner riffs from Freiburg, Germany's threesome.



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13. Doctor Smoke - "EP 2013"

Thick, smoky fuzz from the American Midwest.



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12. Trippy Wicked and the Cosmic Children of the Knight - "Underground" - Superhot Records

A year after releasing one of the best albums of 2012 this talented threesome from southern England release a new batch of songs with a fresh and distinctive sound that manages to maintain the signature quality of the band.



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11. Clan - "EP 2013"

Deep, raunchy stoner blues rich in melody from Norwich's threesome.



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10. Black Thai - "Seasons of Might"

Tight retro stoner riffs from Boston's fearsome foursome, complete with one of the best album covers of the year by the impeccable Alex von Wieding.



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9. Wall of Sleep - "Mao's Gauntlet"

Haunting, bluesy stoner brilliance, released in March. The band released another 7 tracks in August on "Druid" and then promptly disbanded. Hopefully the musical genius of the band members will surface again somewhere in the near future.



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8. Steak - "Corned Beef Colossus" - Napalm Records / Spinning Goblin

Flat out, kick ass stoner rock, meaty and mighty, beefy and buff. London, UK's rare foursome.



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7. Witchrider - "Witchrider"

Clean and intense psych / stoner rock with haunting overtones and brilliant vocals that I discovered through Seth's End of Year list. Too good to ignore and meant to be thoroughly enjoyed. Five member band from Graz, Austria



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6. The Superguns - "The Superguns"

Big, bold, hard, heavy, ass kicking, American rock from Melbourne, Australia's incredible foursome.
 Explosive guitars, powderkeg drums, ricochet bass, and rifling vocals.



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5. Dozer  - "Vultures" - Small Stone Records / Molten Universe

Veteran Swedish stoner rock band who have set a high standard since '98 and show no signs of slacking off with this late '13 release.



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4. The Outlaws of Zen - "Death in the Afternoon" - Chemical City Records

Blitzkrieg stoner/retro rock combined with intelligent melodies from Michigan's foursome.



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3. Crypt Trip - "Crypt Trip"

Psychedelic stoner doom, brilliantly concieved, passionately executed. Huge, haunting, and hairy trio from Dallas.



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2. Palm Desert - "Adayoff" - BSFD Records

Poland's stoner giants, decided to release this placemarker on their day off, until they are ready to release their upcoming LP. Ended up putting out one of the top albums of the year. Brilliant. beginning to end.



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1. Mexicoma - "Mexicoma"

Six member stoner band from Sweden that boasts three guitars, but what sets them apart is not only their immense guitar riffs, but beautiful vocals, incredible melodies, and overall inspirational sound. Originally released in 2010 but released on vinyl in 2013 . . . so it qualifies. Music this awesome needs to be noticed and shared. Let me know if you agree.



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Al's 10 best of 2013

As 2013 quickly fades away and drowns in a foggy haze of weed smoke and fine beer the memories of yesteryear are already difficult to muster, but with the veritable slew of outstanding releases throughout '13 I am left with one big glaring memory of another great year for heavy music in all its forms. Our beloved genre goes from strength to strength and with the consistently high quality of heavy music having been released over the past 12 months there is no sign that our scene is fading away with all the other memories that get locked up within the lost rooms full of a thick green haze and frothy hoppy goodness.

Despite my crumbling memory there have been some landmark releases that will forever stick in my mind so this is my 10 best of  '13, a list I have selected from my regular playlist and pulled together from the reviews I have written for Heavy Planet, bar one. This is not an exclusive list and is in no particular order but be sure to click the titles where you will be taken to the bandcamps or 'tubes of these band's amazing music.

Tentacle - Ingot Eye

Tentacle are one of Ice Dragon's many alter egos and they just so happen to be the slowest and most sludgy, dirge filled and filthy Leviathan of otherworldly doom you are ever likely to have plowed into your metal ravaged earholes. For me, this album has everything I want to hear from doom; from it's Lovecraftian hymns howled by a crazed Cthulian high priest, to the ultra black laments that seize control of body and mind and have you involuntarily curled up on the floor and weeping in hopeless terror; the 4 odes to the deep that comprise "Ingot Eye" will slay any hardcore sludge/doom/drone/sickness fan. When the Tentacle gets you, that's fucking it. You give up. *Protip: not to be listened to on your mp3 players whilst trudging the streets as the effect described above only leads to long stints in psychiatric hospitals and a lot of horrible medication.*

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Maeth - Oceans Into Ashes

Maeth's debut release "Horse Funeral" blew me away when I first heard it. Then, a year later, I listed to their follow up release "Oceans Into Ashes" and I was stunned by what was I was hearing. Maeth are masters of their craft and it shows on this album in a blaze of searing and spine tingling post metal, massive doom riffs, gentle and/or mystical ambiance, powerfully crusty sludge outbursts and electronically sonic experimentalism. Maeth are different and follow no well worn and obvious codes as they forge their own path and it is highly enjoyable to hear. Maeth have a very strong character about them and it shines brightly in their music. With 2 albums under their belt at a level of quality that few can match so early on in their careers; soon enough everyone who loves heavy music, be it doom, sludge, post metal or drone; will know the name and music of Maeth.

(((Maeth Facebook)))

Desert Storm - Horizontal Life

I first discovered Desert Storm when their album "Horizontal Life" was sent to us for review. Soon after that I found out they were to play my home town during their tour supporting super-boogie, hard rock Texan trio Honky on their UK tour. I was immediately taken by "Horizontal Life" but when I heard them live I knew then that Desert Storm are a UK band not to be ignored or pushed aside in favour of more well known UK heavy bands. Desert Storm mean business and they are damn hard working to as they always seem to be on the road touring the UK. "Horizontal Life" is an album packed with big bluesy and groovy stoner metal riffs delivered with a confident swagger and gruff that gives a big nod to Clutch at times but Desert Storm add a big heap of dirty sludge metal and even gentle psychedelia to their sound to make it their very own. The song writing on "Horizontal Life" is brilliant and I don't think I will ever get bored listening to this album. I can't wait to hear what they release next and I can't wait for the opportunity to see them play live again.

(((Desert Storm Facebook)))

Toner Low - III

"III" has to be up there (or down) with one of the heaviest albums released in '13. Hailing from the Netherlands, Toner Low have been around a long time and have put out 3 amazing albums of ultra heavy and hypnotically groovy stoner doom. "III" saw Toner Low take their already low tone and push it even lower. It is dangerous to play this album too loudly and through a big bass cab as it will cause your house fall down and probably your neighbor's too. These are frequencies that trigger earthquakes and make you shit yourself but the 4 tracks that comprise "III" are hugely satisfying to hear. Toner Low manage to make their extremely heavy sound warming to the mind, body and soul as their riffs are trance inducing walls of low freq bliss. Hit many bowls, toke as much green as you can and be prepared for a body crushing experience that will leave you catatonic and dribbling in lowend vibrations, but maybe wear a diaper just in case.

(((Toner Low Facebook)))

AMENRA - Mass V

This album was actually released at the end of 2012 but since I didn't get to hear it until February '13 when I reviewed the album, it makes it onto my 10 best of last year list because for me this is one of the best post metal/power doom albums that I heard in '13. Released on Neurosis' Neurot Recordings, AMENRA come very much from the Neurosis cult of darkly spiritual, earthy and ancient doom and black ambient post metal. A crushing anguish slices through every track on "Mass V" but there is always an underlying essence of determination and hope buried deep within and for those with ears and minds to listen and to understand, "Mass V" is a work of almost religious reveling in introspective but ultimately liberating post metal and atmospheric doom. Whilst AMENRA are cold and harsh and bring images of frozen dead forests smeared with a mist of ghostly memories of lost and pointless battles there is a glint in the eyes of those long dead warriors and the dead trees show tiny green buds on the cusp of bursting. It's deep man.

Throughout 2013 and since signing to Neurot Recordings, AMENRA have toured extensively with many sold out shows and much discussed appearances at several big festivals, and with a UK appearance supporting the mighty Neurosis at Temples Festival in May, AMENRA and their "Church of Ra" will draw their disciples from far off lands for a night of solemn prayers to the doomed.

(((AMENRA Facebook))) 

Trippy Wicked and the Cosmic Children of the Knight - Underground EP

Trippy Wicked returned last year with the highly anticipated "Underground EP" that showed TW take a darker more sludgier direction than their previous album, "Coming Home". Although TW have never been averse to thick and fuzzy sludge-outs, TW have never sounded so dark, so foreboding and so ultra crushing as they do on this EP. That last bit is not strictly true, I admit, as TW have always been ultra crushing but the fact that the "Underground EP" contains 5 odes to a dying world makes it all the more devastatingly crushing. Surprisingly, 2 of the tracks on the EP are instrumentals, if this can even be called an EP as it feels more like a mini-album, in that it feels so very complete, so solid, as if TW achieved what they set out to do with this EP. Not "as if", they DID achieve what they set out to do, and they achieved it brilliantly. The tone is set for the apocalypse; there is desperation and there is fear but most of all there is hope.
TW had a busy '13, hitting the road to play numerous very successful shows across the UK and with many more lined-up for '14, I do hope TW find time to write a new record this year as with every release they just get better and better.

(((Trippy Wicked Facebook))) 

Gonga - Concrescence 

After something of a long quietus/hiatus for Gonga, they finally returned in '13 with "Concrescence" and my oh my was it worth the wait. Being something of a departure from their previous releases, Gonga released an entirely instrumental album that had them explore a myriad of riff currents but without ever dropping the unmistakable Gonga sound. The seamless transitions from colorfully airy psychedelia to fuzzy warm desert grooves to big and earthy pulverizing doom to experimental and jagged jazz metal are all fine examples of Gonga's long mastered riffcraft abilities. The weaving together of these elements in Gonga's own unique way makes "Concrescence" a highly enjoyable listening experience and shows that Gonga have explored and matured their sound over the years but they still rock as hard as they ever did. Despite no longer having a vocalist, Gonga held onto their vision and went back down into the riff crypt for a few years and only resurfaced when planet earth was ready to hear "Concrescence". Gonga's return is most welcome indeed.

(((Gonga Facebook))) 

Monachus - Below

Sweden's dark psyche, doom, sludge kings Monachus released their second album under the name Monachus, after having previously been named Icos. I love all their work whatever they're called but "Below" took their already huge sound and managed to make it huger. The riffs throughout "Below" are of a  truly memorable kind, to the point that any given riff from any song on "Below" sometimes suddenly pops into my head whilst I'm brushing my teeth for instance or holding a door open for an old lady; I hear Monachus' riffs in my mind and then I have to listen to them all day and the next day and the day after that. I get a craving and I need a Monachus fix and my mind won't rest until I get it. Their riffs and their delivery of those riffs and the vocals that are sung and growled so proudly, so encouragingly; they are very pleasing to my doom and sludge addicted ears and that is why "Below" makes it onto my best 10 of '13 list. Monachus take a big leaf out of the books of Isis and Neurosis but there is no mimicry to be heard from these 4 Swedes who have carved their own lasting mark into the great monolith of post metal blended with sludge. There are much howls of triumph throughout "Below" that one cannot help but raise up the arms in celebration. To what, I don't know, but it feels fucking good to do it anyway.

(((Monachus Facebook))) 

 Obelyskkh - Hymn to Pan

When I first heard Germany's Obelyskkh and their album "Hymn to Pan", I was at first stunned then a little confused. I had never come across Obelyskkh before and I spent a large chunk of time trying to work out why a band and album were so good and how it was possible that I had never heard of them. After a bit of research I discovered that Obelyskkh prefer to stay fairly low-key and they originally intended to never put any of their work to record, but they have and the universe is a better place for it. "Hymn to Pan" is a stunning example of masterfully woven doom and sludge metal that oozes with earthy vibrations and organic melodies. The riffs on display throughout "Hymn to Pan" are towering slabs of solid granite that reach to space and which have their roots deep down in the earth and Obelyskkh play their riffs like they are the legendary pagan warrior kings of yore sounding out a battle cry to defend their lands from the invading Roman hoards. The songs on "Hymn to Pan" are breath taking and full of a raw and heavy power that is up there with the very best of doom and sludge bands that we already know and love. Obelyskkh have shown with "Hymn to Pan" that they can at least equal those big dog bands and then some. I believe "Hymn to Pan" to be a classic in its genre and will be seen as such one day. Obelysskh play their take on the genre with an intention to make it last, to set it in stone and when we are all long gone, "Hymn to Pan" will go down as a true legend in its own right.

(((Obelyskkh Facebook))) 

 The Lion's Daughter & Indian Blanket - A Black Sea

"A Black Sea" is the result of a collaboration between dark and sombre folk group Indian Blanket, and black doom metal band The Lion's Daughter, both hailing from St. Louis, MO. What these 2 bands have achieved together is an absolutely perfect fusion of doom and folk into a cohesive single element that is breathtaking in it's brilliance. This is the only release on my list that I did not review as it fell upon my ears right at the tail end of '13 but since then I cannot stop listening to it. I am a fan of folk music in its many forms, and I especially enjoy dark and earthy and psychedelic folk, which there is unfortunately very little to be heard, although there are some rare gems in amongst the inevitable tweeness of most 'dark' folk bands. I have not come across either band before but upon first hearing "A Black Sea", I became an immediate fan of both. On "A Black Sea" The Lion's Daughter & Indian Blanket weave an intricate tapestry of solemn violins, acoustic guitars and tragic words against a huge wall of heart crushing doom riffs, explosive percussion and harsh black metal vocals. It is beautiful to hear and could well be considered a masterpiece of folk doom metal. "A Black Sea" will be a major fixture on my playlist for a long time to come as I doubt I will ever get tired of hearing it. I hope these 2 great bands follow this amazing album with another collaboration sometime in the future.

(((The Lion's Daughter Facebook  - Indian Blanket Facebook)))

~*~

2014 is already looking to be another storming year for heavy music with Sleep announcing that they are recording a new album and Electric Wizard vaguely hinting at the release of their next album, this is one doom/stoner/sludge fan who is quite ravenous at the prospect at wrapping my ears around new music from some of my most beloved bands. Lets raise our jugs of ale and bongs and give thanks to the lords of lowend for the heavy gifts which we receive.

Onwards, forwards my friends!

Zac's Top Ten of 2013

I don't care much for Bruce Springsteen... however he had some killer tunes, especially The Seeger Sessions. Here are my favorite releases of 2013.

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Preferred EPs:

Katla: I Will Hunt You / Foaming Waters

Surprise, surprise, surprise! More great music from Sweden. This female lead quartet seduced me with their acid blues influenced dark psych. I Will Hunt You and Foaming Waters was released on a special 7" by Who Can You Trust? Records. They only pressed 500 copies, so if you missed out earlier this year you may be S.O.L. Be sure to check Who Can You Trust? Records web-store for this one and a hand-ful of other Heavy Planet favorites.

Stand-out track: Foaming Waters

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The Wans: The Wans EP

My second Preferred EP of 2013 belongs to Nashville Tennessee's The Wans. My love for this trios Tenneessee brethern, All Them Witches, blessed me with an introduction to this "feel good" / get your rocks off EP. Don't miss my favorite track Want You with all its southern swagger and rhythmic wandering.

Stand-out track: Want You

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Favorite Full-Length Releases:

010: Black Sabbath - 13

It's Black Sabbath. Tony's still got it.

Stand-out track: Age Of Reason

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009: Supervoid: Filaments

Sometimes the city of Pittsburgh might be guilty of displaying too much pride. I try to be humble for the most part, but I can proudly proclaim musical victory for this city with Supervoid and their progressive, sludge-tastic release Filaments. Releasing a conceptual, "interstellar road trip" of a metal album earlier this year Supervoid are off to an epic start. My apologizies to lead vocalist Brian for describing his performance on Wake of the Smoke Jumper in my write-up earlier this year as female vocals. That is just how dynamic this man's vocal abilities are though folks.

Stand-out track: Wake of the Smoke Jumper

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008: Cavern: S/T

I warned you. Cavern would rear its ugly head come years end and here we are. This authentic release full of sludgy thrashing has stood the test of time and continually battered my ears senseless. I'll show no remorse if you have yet to lend your ears to this Maryland trio and their RIFF lashing.

Stand-out track: Far Beyond Fields and Evergreens

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007: Summoner: Atlantian

Summoner is the first band to land on my year end list two years in a row. Last year's Pheonix was well rounded and full of stoner and desert rock and haunting, psychedelic fuzz. Atlantian takes the genius that was Pheonix and enhances the formula. Take the Nuclear Dog's words, here you will find "polished psych-edged licks of ingenuity" and "raw-boned riffs". Check out the rest of the review for a better idea of what awaits on Atlantian.

Stand-out track: Under the Crystalline Sky

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006: Clutch: Earth Rocker

Earth Rocker simply kicks ass. An all out attack of blues inspired rock and roll fronted by some of the best vocals, defended by some of the grooviest guitar work, and founded on some of the best rhythmic percussion in the business. "If you're gonna do it, you better take it to the stage."

Stand-out tracks: D.C. Sound Attack!, The Face, The Wolf Man Kindly Requests...

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005: Black Wizard: Young Wisdom

The under-dog of 2013 lands at my number five spot. As I described earlier this year... Black Wizard are "like a sleazier, Nordic version of Guns 'N Roses" that rock blazing guitars accompanied by a rhythmic cavalry. Here new listeners will find raw vocals, blistering RIFFS, and even some spacey Radiohead-esque interludes. If you missed Young Wisdom upon its release back in June, now is the time to familiarize yourself with Adam Grant and company and their debut full-length Young Wisdom.

Stand-out track: Wicked Wanderer

*For those readers that truly dug Black Wizard, please check out Adam's other project Three Wolf Moon.

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004: Anciients: Heart Of Oak

There is so much to say about Heart Of Oak... the excellent progression and transformation of each track, the completely killer blackened-death like vocals, the strike of each drum head or cymbal strike, the intracate and yet groovy RIFFs, the bluesy Gilmour meets Allman picking! What an excellent release! Kenny Cook and the gang have out-done themselves with Heart Of Oak and Anciients first release.

Stand-out tracks: Overthrone, For Lisa

*Kenny is also a part of our number five spot Black Wizard. That is beyond groovy.

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003: Pelican: Forever Becoming

I completely fell in love with this album the moment my eyes graced the album artwork. Could I be considered a Pelican fan-boy. I guess so. But how is that a bad thing? Forever Becoming is simply another phenomenal release by the best instrumental band. Period. Will you always be in the mood for albums of this magnitude? Probably not. Will you always walk away with a new impression or new ideas after experiencing a piece of art so authentic? Most certainly. Pelican rules. Welcome to the show Dallas.

Stand-out track: Perpetual Dawn

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002: All Them Witches: Lightning At The Door

Still full of that vibrant southern soul All Them Witches produce their very own Psyche-a-delta Rock with immense confidence and swagger. Mr. Staebler's drumming genius has only grown in skill and charisma while the infectious RIFFING will keep you coming back for more. If I might take a line from my favorite track Charles William, "I wanna take you home... everyday.".

Stand-out track: Charles William

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001: Kylesa: Ultraviolet

I've really grown with Kylesa in their past three releases. Ultraviolet hit me hard upon first spin and has stuck with me throughout all of 2013. These guys and gal, "display their full mainpulation of sonic frequency" here on Ultraviolet and do it with class in a sub-five-minute dark pop, dream sludge tone. I knew this was my favorite album of 2013 immediately, I don't even think album opener Exhale was half way through its three minute run time when I realized it. The quintet have recorded an album that grows in experimentation as it does with time. New to the sound are some spacey psychedelics and Ms. Pleasants totally lovely clean vocals. Something you may be familiar with... the tribal and unchaining sound of Carl McGinley and Eric Hernandez's dual percussion.

Stand-out tracks: Exhale, We're Taking This