Stoned Jesus — Seven Thunders Roar (2012)
Album Review
Oh, Stoned Jesus. This Ukrainian trio of talented musicians did in fact have an incredible effect on the way I pursue and enjoy music. Ever since the beginning, in 2014. Younger me was amazed by the fascinating riffs of Black Sabbath and Pink Floyd, who in my opinion had at the time perfected the stoner-doom metal formula. Having that in mind, I gave Seven Thunders Roar a listen because at the time my musical needs, needed a refresh. It is the second album succeeding First communion in 2010. So, this album occurred on my radar. I cannot emphasize enough on how it caught me off guard, nearly surprised me. And below I’m going to explain how my journey through mountains and sea, made me listen in awe and enjoyment, the spirit and feel of true stoner rock as it is portrayed in this album.
It is important though, to make a fair comparison with the first album, as it shaped their musical style. It was not as polished and well produced as Seven Thunders Roar, but still it defined their roots and influences. Having that out of the way, it is safe to say that the vocals had a significant progression. I could describe the vocals as more mature and well presented in contrast to the first album. The use of sound effects is more impactful, and the atmosphere is very much wider and smoother. Their great use of them is a major bonus and a massive artistic detail that doesn’t weight the record, but the exact opposite. It compliments it. The effects go hand in hand with the tracks and do not fatigue or feel like unnecessary layers. There is just the right amount, just to immerse the listener deeper. That is exactly what’s happening with the opening track on this record, Bright like the morning. It sets the atmosphere to welcome you to this world. Waves, seagulls, and the chunky, thick guitar are a bliss to hear and set the expectations high for the rest to come. The one aspect that elevates their sound signature is the slow buildup during the tracks as it prepares you with slow but rhythmic riffs, so it can blast your head later. And they do that brilliantly. Especially in the first track, your long awaiting mid-section of the song rewards you for the slow but steady start. I would describe it as enough buildup. As the track progresses, it gradually shifts towards the heavier side of this album’s signature sound. Stoney, doom and heavy eclectic riffs. Continuing to the second track, the mood is set straight away. What I particularly like about the compositions is the fact that they manage to create lengthy songs that feel cohesive and put together very nicely. The second track has a progression that follows the exact opposite direction the first one has. It hammers you straight away, to continue with the Electric Mistress mantra till the end of the song. The mood is heavy, and I enjoyed the hell out of it. Indian, is the shortest track on this record, having one third of the song being instrumental, that I believe serves as a transition to the next track I’m the mountain. The track melodically transitions to the next that follows the same recipe as the first one Bright like the morning. Again, the calmness moves into becoming a thundery wall of solid vocals leading the track onto the final act of the record, Stormy Monday. What I can definitely say, is that Bright like the morning is the pinnacle of this entire album because it highlights and emphasizes all the qualities that Stoned Jesus try to include in their music. It’s the perfect blend of psychedelic melodies, beautifully crafted and executed. It transferred me into another place and time, and that is something that is greatly appreciated when producing high quality music, music that moves you. And they do that with impeccable precision. Instruments are masterfully utilized and blended excellently. This includes the guitar riffs, the bass and the slow but steady drum kicks and cymbals. It’s brilliant! This record’s final track is Stormy Monday. It is not emphasized enough that when making a great record it is important for the tracks to be put in the correct order, in a way as if they are trying to narrate a story. There has a to be a cohesion to all. Listening to an album must provide more than just a series of tracks one after the other. It is a musical journey, and this one, it truly is a one hell of a journey. In the last quarter of the record, the vocalist slightly changes the style, bringing in a brighter, more forward vocal tone to the track. Combine this with the pace of the last solo provided, it indeed provided an amazing musical experience from start to end.
When it comes to lyricism, I can say it’s not something that stands out from the crowd, as this is pure doom written on paper. The melancholy, the use of elements and tone make the narration, an excellent combination that in fact blends everything together. There’s no doom without the lyrics, and there’s no psychedelic without the instruments. It’s a best of both worlds. Not many memorable lyrics, but it’s worth mentioning the nihilism of I’m the Mountain through the entire track.
Verdict: Seven Thunders Roar is an excellent example of what stoner rock/metal sounds like. The feeling, the vibes and the colors of their music are all put together creating a stunning record that is going to be remembered for sure. If you’re at least somewhat interested in stoner music, this album is an absolute must! You will enjoy every ounce of it!
Score: 9/10 Masterpiece
Listen to Seven Thunders Roar on Spotify!
Artist: Stoned Jesus
Album: Seven Thunders Roar
Release Date: 2012
Tracklist:
- Bright Like The Morning
- Electric Mistress
- Indian
- I’m The Mountain
- Stormy Monday
Originally published at http://darkwolfers.wordpress.com on March 12, 2020.
