One of the greatest things I’ve stumbled across in my unending search for new metal to enjoy is the concept of bringing together psychedelia and doom metal, but it is one that is far from unique. It’s been done so many different times in so many different ways, but rarely does a band come around to really surpass expectations to create something truly transcendent. I’ve come across a handful of bands that have done it masterfully, and today I’m adding StoneBirds to that exclusive list solely because of their marvelous new album.
Ever since Neurosis decided to dabble in doom and create a sound that’s all but unique to the world, there have been many bands that have followed whether it be as Neurosis rose in popularity or long after their legacy was cemented. Inter Arma and YOB are but two other names that come to mind, but for years it has been those three (in my experience) that have stood atop the wide realm of psychedelic doom as they bring the most unique experiences to the table in the most splendid fashion of their choosing. Now like I said, I’m adding StoneBirds to such a legendary category as their brand new sophomore effort, “Time”, is more than masterful enough to be considered as such. This eight-track album brings not only an applause-worthy sense of pacing and heaviness to the table, but an astounding diversity in sound to ensure the music never becomes stagnant and that “Time”, much like its namesake, is always flowing. StoneBirds also displays wonderful musicianship as we’re treated to amazing soundscapes that prove this band can tackle the challenge of making the heaviness sound awesome but also making the calmer retrospectives wildly entertaining at the same time. That doesn’t sound all that amazing with the way I described it, but “Time” managed to bring together so many different aspects into one piece so brilliantly well in the right proportions that enable StoneBirds to make this album a true gem of psychedelic doom the likes of which we don’t get often enough.
This is the kind of stuff that I live for and is one of the styles that gives me the drive to continue doing these reviews because I savor whenever I come across something like this. Music takes you places, but music like this, in particular, makes those locales so detailed, entrancing, and addictive that it’s all but intoxicating once you get a measly taste of what there is to behold. StoneBirds is a unique band, indeed, and this album gives me purpose again. Such a gem cannot go unnoticed, and I’ll be damned if these French men don’t get the recognition they deserve. “Time” is a tantalizing record of monolithic proportions that you won’t be able to rip yourself away from this pristine experience as I couldn’t.
LISTEN to “Time” on Bandcamp here.
LIKE StoneBirds on Facebook here.
FOLLOW StoneBirds on Twitter: @WeareStoneBirds
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