Review Summary: ‘’Grunge is back and it comes from outer space.’’
Seattle-based geeko-grunge-sludge metal outfit is back with an all-in sophomore album after its well received first one, Sandrider (2009).
The power trio, featuring Jon Wiesnieski, Nat Damm of Akimbo and completed by bass player Jesse Roberts, delivers on Godhead an explosive blend of post-hardcore, 90’s revival alternative rock sound and pure rock fury, and it’s totally satisfying.
Yeah, on Godhead, Sandrider drives deeper into its Fender driven rock-metal: it’s edgy, sloppy, but precise at the same time. It’s loud and noisy in the same way you’d enjoyed listening Whores., Young Widows and Cherubs, but with a grungy Soundgarden-esque vibe.
This LP also brings to the table more accurate and affirmative vocals from Wiesnieski. Now you all need to consider Sandrider as an absolute powerhouse when it comes to ‘’grunge-metal’’ ethics is present in this LP.
But nonetheless, Godhead brings us deeper into the sci-fi universe of its creators. Sandrider, a concept band originally based on Frank Hebert’s Dune, is now widening its lyrical references to a whole new world, outside of Arakis. Let’s take a closer look at this LP, song by song.
Godhead starts off with one of their best song to this day: Ruiner. From its ‘’We Will Rock You’’ intro to its epic melodic conclusion, this song is one of the most convincing introduction to an album since… Children from Sandrider’s debut LP.
Castles and Tides build on the tone and energy set by Ruiner with heavy guitars, crushing drums and powerful shouted vocals. But it’s with the fourth song that you can fully embark into the core of Godhead and from there, it’s Sandrider at its best.
Gorgon got this high octane riff that reminds us of Fu Manchu’s Evil Eye with a grittier vibe. It also features a monstrous breakdown mid-song. Gotta love those Sandrider breakdowns. They’re good at it.
The title song, Godhead, will follow with its interesting build-up from a slow and groovy vibe to a thunderous finale. This song reminds us of The Judge, a similar track on the band’s previous LP.
Overwatch, Champion and Scalpel will change the pace as they bring upbeat riffs and energetic singing to the mix, while Beast and Traveller give the final assault with brutally heavy riffs.
Recorded and mixed by Matt Bayles (KEN Mode, ISIS, Botch) Godhead is a convincing collection of imperial drums, round bass tones and precise guitar sounds, while the singing, chants, choirs, screams and melodies from Wiesnieski are one more proof that the band delivered a flawless studio performance and improved its songwriting.
Now, have a listen to the record and try not to air guitar. I know, it’s impossible.
