Crank this to 8.8 of 11
Released: 2020
Genre: Stoner Rock
Sounds Like: Weedpecker, Snail, King Buffalo
Hailing from Arizona, Hovenweep unveil an inspiring debut filled with uplifting psychedelic fuzz. Salivan Journey is a trip into a world of laid back heaviness. Upon first listen, we were drawn into the soft heaviness of the opening track “Cave”. The song quickly builds into a massive burst of spacious stoner rock bliss. Vocalist and bassist Mike has a lofty and calm approach to his singing, and among the fuzz creates welcome a contrast. Track two “Salvian Journey” is a stellar follow up with it’s soothing stoner presence. We are even treated to some sludge styled vocals for a moment, which brings things to another level. Tracks three and four continue on this journey of heavy psychedelic wonderment. “The Last Ones” is another addicting cut that flows beautifully with a dreamy heavy vibe and closing out the album is the spacey tune of “I Am A Locust”. Together, these four tracks weave together flawlessly and create a nice balance of heavy psychedelia.
Tracklist:
1. Cave 06:30
2. Salvian Journey 06:21
3. The Last Ones 05:40
4. I Am A Locust 07:41
Standout Track(s)
”Salvian Journey” and “The Last Ones”
Adult Beverage Pairing
LazerSnake by Indiana’s 3 Floyds Brewing is a nice companion to Salvian Journey. The 7% American IPA has a dry and bitter taste that comes with most IPA’s, yet has a unique flavors of lime and peach.
ROTATION RECAP:
Vocal Performance
8.9 of 11
Risk of Subwoofer Damage
8.7 of 11 Captivation and Variety
8.6 of 11 Weight of the Heavy
8.7 of 11 Lyrics and Song Structure
8.8 of 11
Fretwork Prowess
8.7 of 11
Overall Album Flow
8.9 of 11
Album Cover Aesthetics
9 of 11
Production Value
8.8 of 11
Final Thoughts
Hovenweep show amazing talent and patience for a new band. Their brand of stoner rock is so open ended they can take their music in any direction.