Crank this to 8.8 of 11
Released: 2018
Genre: Stoner rock
Sounds Like: Clutch, Crowbar, Corrosion of Conformity
Don’t let the oddball album cover and band name fool you. Godhead Lizard’s debut album is loaded with quality craftsmanship. Perhaps there is some distant relationship with one of our favorite bands, the Jesus Lizard, although no connectivity in sound. Hailing from Quebec Canada the foursome unleashes some old school fuzzed-out grunge. The focal point of the band being Vince’s brute vocals. It harkens us back to old school Clutch, TAD, and Corrosion Of Conformity. The five tracks are filled with terrific contrast, build-up and precision fretwork.
Track Listing:
1. Andorayd 08:57
2. Blehavoyance 06:44
3. C.M.H 06:37
4. Seasons of Uiu 08:15
5. Dead 03:54
6. СЛАВА 04:21
Standout Track:
While we were impressed with the unique distortion and spoken word of "Ancient Suns," The true prize has to go to the closer "Dreamstone". The fuzziest of the five tracks spirals into new territory with expansive and free-flowing ominous landscapes. Vince’s voice on this track is filled with despair and suspense. The deep rich base compliments the piercing fuzz and dark appeal.
Adult Beverage Pairing:
The Canadian vibrancy in The Shawinigan Handshake (6.5% ABV) a hazy, peach-coloured beer with notes of bread, banana and spruce, reflecting the flavours of German yeast and Chinook hops. With explosive effervescence, the palate blends soft wheat flavours with bitter hops that linger on for a dry, refreshing finish. The perfect native ‘godhead’ experience to support your palate and compliment your sonic well-being.
ROTATION RECAP :
Vocal Performance
8.7 out of 11
Risk of Subwoofer Damage
8.6 out of 11
Captivation and Variety
9 out of 11
Weight of the Heavy
8.7 out of 11
Lyrics and Song Structure
9.1 of 11
Fretwork Prowess
9.1 out of 11
Overall Album Flow
8.8 out of 11
Album Cover Aesthetics
8.5 out of 11
Production Value
8.6 out of 11
Final Thoughts:
The debut from Godhead Lizard is much more thought provoking and elaborate than you would think after first blush of the album cover. This is exactly our mission. To point out those albums that are flying under the radar and deserve your attention. Do not gloss this one over. The foursome have a dark and diverse story to tell, well deserving of a mainstay in your heavy rotation.