Brazilian Stoner Rock/Metal quartet Gods & Punks is back with three new tracks. This time they bring a modern take on dealing with issues to the forefront of the lyrics while keeping the music more in line with their historic sound. This album was even recorded differently, using more of the remote technology that came to dominate the music world during the pandemic. There is a mellow vibe to this EP, giving it a laid-back sound and a soothing template. There is a little harshness in the tones, but the tempo leaves you feeling a bit relaxed despite the tension of the lyrical topics.

http://godsandpunks.bandcamp.com

Band Members:

  • Alexandre Canhetti – Vocals
  • Rodrigo Blasquez – Lead Guitars
  • Pedro Canhetti – Bass/Rhythm Guitars
  • Gabriel Santiago – Drums

Release Date:

February 23, 2024 – Abraxas Records

https://unleashabraxas.com/

Tracklist:

  1. Mountains Of Garbage
  2. Dinosaur Feathers
  3. Purple Moon

With only three songs on this EP, it is easy to put it on a loop and just let it dig into your brain. The title track is first, opening with a slow drum beat for a short bit, and then the guitars just kind of morph into being. Both the bass and the six-string seem to just kind of appear, fuzzed out and trudging through the riff. The vocals are clean and either layered or backed, probably layered. The lead guitars occasionally get up to an almost mid-tempo speed on the solo, staying low and slow for the rest of the time.

“Dinosaur Feathers” opens even slower. It is a lethargic, hazy song with a haunted quality to the voice. The drum tempo is so far down it makes Hair Metal sound like it’s on speed. There is a relaxing atmosphere with this tempo, despite the eerie tone and ambient soundscape created. It takes almost six minutes to get through this song, but I find myself in no hurry. The composition fits the pace and tone beautifully, lulling me into a sense of wanting to just slow down and let the track unfold.

After years of Power and Thrash Metal, a good dose of Stoner/Doom Metal is just what the doctor ordered. There is just something about the pace that is a welcome relief from the constant punishing pace of what I typically hear. I find myself looking for more and more slower music as I progress through the many phases of Heavy Metal fandom. Gods & Punks provides that, never trying to rush, never pushing the limits of sonic speed. Just a few listens to this 15-minute EP and I feel calmer, more sedate, like I can just exist and be okay. I appreciate this at a time when I’ve been deep into Hardcore and Death Metal concerts. Thank you for the rest!

MZ Ratings:

Musicianship:

  •             Guitars – 8
  •             Rhythms – 8
  •             Vocals – 8
  • Songwriting – 8
  • Production – 8

Overall – 8.00