“in 10 years, this band could be mentioned alongside the New Orleans greats before them.”
Hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana (NOLA), the rookie doom metal outfit, SPACEMETAL, is one of the best new bands that I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing in quite some time, and seems to be on their way to following in the footsteps of some of the most influential Heavy Metal Heavyweights that call “The Big Easy”, home. Most importantly, these guys have, remained true to the ancestry and deep-rooted heritage of the “Louisiana Sound”, (or Sludge Metal, as most refer to it these days); the ever-popular sub-genre originated by EXHORDERin the late 80’s, and carried on by the likes of other NOLA bands DOWN, EYEHATEGOD, andCROWBAR, to name just a few.
Consisting of Travis Acosta (Vocals), Chris Trentecosta (Guitar), John Maracich (Guitar), Robert Norton (Bass), and Chris Kain (Drums), SPACEMETAL possess limitless headliner potential, which should put them squarely on the radar of every doom metal fan searching for the next “can’t miss” band. On their debut album, a strong presence of early hometown influences are blended perfectly with their fresh originality, creating their own uniquely tight and polished doom sound, while at the same time, keeping the inherited thickness of old school sludge, front and center. I would describe their sound as Cosmic Sludge; a mixture of BLACK SABBATH’s heaviness, the galloping groove of CLUTCH and MONSTER MAGNET, and some progressive elements ofRUSH; put all of this together with great songwriting, and you’ve got one hell of a sound. All of the classic doom essentials are accounted for; down-tuned, chunky guitars, eclectic lyrical patterns, and of course, tempo variations, but where this album shines, is the progressive nuances melded into their music. Having the talent to evolve “The Louisiana Sound” is an attribute that each legendary NOLA band has possessed; staying true to the innovation of the genre, putting their own stamp on it, and keeping it relevant in their own era of Metal.
Because New Orleans is recognized as being the birthplace of the Sludge Metal genre, SPACEMETAL have history and geographical location on their side, to go along with their immense talent, and should be the next in line to carry on this trademark sound. With the right management team around them, the sky’s the limit, and you never know, in 10 years, this band could be mentioned alongside some the New Orleans greats before them. If you’re a fan of Doom Metal, this is a must buy.