Torche - Meanderthal

Once upon a time a tour of mythical sludge proportions dredged through the unprepared city of Syracuse, NY leaving a total wake of destruction and perpetual head banging in it's path. The year was 2005, and that tour featured three bands that have since grown incredibly popular in the underground metal scene; the then recently formed Torche, 'Cuse mainstays Coliseum (I could always count on seeing this band every few months despite being from Kentucky), and Georgia's own proprietors of mayhem Kylesa.

When it came time for Torche to play the PA began to malfunction much to the delight of singer/guitarist Steve Brooks who memorably proclaimed "Sweet, instrumental set!" before launching into a thirty minute jam session with his bandmates. Initially put off by his vocals, I certainly wasn't complaining. I enjoyed the other bands sets throughly, and with a cloud of smoke (literary) the tour carried on. That was that...

Fast forward three years, and a couple records later to their Hydrahead Records debut "Meanderthal". As soon as "Grenades" hit my speakers any misgivings I had about the vocals were torn away and spit back into my face. Meanderthal seems so much more smooth and well rounded without losing any of the heavy stoner charm of their previous releases. The crossover appeal of this record is also quite evident; had this come out fifteen years earlier I'm convinced it would have garnered some major airplay. With heavy nods to everyone from Jawbox to Queens of the Stone Age these boys managed to release one of the catchiest and melodic rock records of last year and should not be overlooked. Highly recommended for fans of the previously mentioned bands, Helmet, and stoner rock in general.

-Daniel Marc Cafferty

P.S. Did I mention the art direction/packaging is absolutely phenomenal as well? The jacket folds out into a mountain!

Personal album highlights:
- Grenades
- Across the Shields
- Without a Sound
- Fat Waves

Meanderthal - if you enjoy the album please support the band and your favorite independent record store by purchasing a copy

Here's a fan made video for "Grenades" utilizing a picture from when they played Syracuse (Halloween):