Groan – The Sleeping Wizard

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England’s remarkable resurgence of traditional doom metal seems to be continuing unabated at present, and Groan from Stoke-On-Trent have turned in one of the best releases of the “movement” with their debut CD. Although only more or less the length of an EP all the elements of a genre classic are present in the sombre lyrics, riffs-galore and high-end, melodic vocals. There are no epics here in terms of length (The Martyr King is the longest track at 4:40), but the feel of epic doom metal (think Forsaken or Count Raven) remains strong and present on nearly every track, especially plodding closer Ancient Space (Master of Time), which recalls Reverend Bizarre immediately. Add to this some Sahg-esque choruses, a little stoner fuzz, and of course the background echoes of Black Sabbath necessary in all doom metal, and doom fans can’t fail to enjoy this, even for the short while it lasts. The Sleeping Wizard places Groan amongst Nomad Son, Semlah, Dreaming and Spirit Descent as the best of the young doom bands around now, and being left wanting more is an absolutely guarantee.

Written by Andy Lye
More: 2010, Albums, Doom Metal, Quick.Play Reviews, Groan