As I plunged into the depths of Fantastic Flying Foelschs' latest offering, "Histories," I found myself enveloped in an audial journey that resonated with the raw power of Doom, the viscous sludge of Sludge, and the hazy haze of Stoner Metal. Formed in 2018 by the dynamic duo Aaron and Haley Foelsch, this musical experiment has evolved into a force to be reckoned with, and "Histories" stands as a testament to their relentless pursuit of raw sound.
From the first notes, it's evident that Aaron's command over the guitar and bass is nothing short of mesmerizing. The riffs crawl and twist, creating an atmosphere that's both haunting and hypnotic. Paired with Haley's thunderous drumming, the Foelschs duo orchestrates an audial storm that sweeps you off your feet.
The album, with its eight crushing tracks, feels like a descent into the abyss. Each composition is a chapter in a dark and mysterious tale, with the Foelschs' vocals serving as the haunting narrator. Their voices intertwine, adding an extra layer of complexity to the audial landscape. The lyrics, though often obscured by the wall of sound, carry a weight that resonates with the doom-laden themes.
The band's pandemic-era live stream shows and their appearances at Porchfest, The Crypt, Erebus, and more, showcase their commitment to staying connected with their audience. The tour in late August 2023, celebrating the release of "Histories," further solidifies their dedication to taking their music to the masses.
The album's strength lies in its ability to transport the listener to different realms of heaviness. Tracks like "Exit" and "Fiver" hit with a seismic force, while others like "Dust" take a more contemplative approach. Each song is a chapter in the band's history, and as the title suggests, it's a journey through time, space, and raw audial landscapes.
In conclusion, "Histories" is an audial odyssey that demands your attention. While not without its intense moments, the album invites you to explore the nuances of its soundscapes. Fantastic Flying Foelschs' evolution since their formation in 2018 is palpable, and "Histories" is a testament to their growth as musicians. If you're a fan of the heavy, raw, doom, and eclectic, this album is a must-listen. With its combination of crushing riffs, thunderous drums, and haunting vocals, "Histories" solidifies Fantastic Flying Foelschs as a force to be reckoned with in the Doom, Sludge, and Stoner Metal genres.
Listen to the album here: ▶︎ Histories | Fantastic Flying Foelschs (bandcamp.com)