Review Summary: MWWB does a fantastic job of presenting their eclectic style at its most refined with The Harvest
For the most part, the fourth album from Mammoth Weed Wizard Bastard (Now just going by their initials) is right in line with the atmospheric doom last seen on 2019’s Yn Ol I Annwn. The Welsh group’s approach remains predominately defined by bottom heavy chugging riffs, ethereal vocals, ominously ritualistic moods, and an increasing presence of tripped-out synths. These elements provide a familiar framework that The Harvest is more than happy to commit even deeper to and push to further extents than before.
This adjustment is immediately established by the keyboards that dominate the proceedings. MWWB have been no strangers to incorporating effects on previous efforts, but they’ve never so thoroughly enveloped the songs as much as they do here. In addition to filling space by means of the usual atmospheric riff backdrops and swirling freakouts during instrumental segments, there are also several tracks devoted to sonic exploration that suggest influences from synthwave and ambient music.
While these tracks could be initially seen as interlude type filler, each one manages to put in a distinct personality. “Interstellar Wrecking” really dials into those post-Carpenter horror score vibes while “Betrayal” has an almost prog flavor with its bouncy progression, back-masked vocals, and a steady beat. “Let’s Send These Bastards Whence They Came” is another highlight, both for that awesome title as well as its dreamy cadences and extra effects.
Of course, the rest of the album still features plenty of the colossal doom numbers that one would expect. The title track and “Strontium” are the longest runners at nine minutes long each, the former played with a certain urgency that makes for stronger executions without getting too upbeat or dragged out. Elsewhere, “Logic Bomb” and “Altamira” cycle through slowed down swing riffs and smoothly delivered vocal hooks. “Moon Rise” is an effective denouement, contrasting the other tracks with a much quieter fuzz progression that allows the echoing vocals shine.
Much like Messa’s most recent album, MWWB does a fantastic job of presenting their eclectic style at its most refined with The Harvest. The greater focus on synths works incredibly well with their atmospheric doom foundation. I must admit there are times where the album can feel like two stylistically different EPs mushed together, yet the way they’re integrated is surprisingly cohesive. It may still take some time to feel out due to its glacial pacing, but the material flows well with a great deal of character throughout. Overall, the sort of album that helps make an already great band even greater.
