With Saturnalia, Wizzerd has gone all in on the stoner/doom vibe, delivering an album that’s dense, cosmic, and absolutely heavy. Right from the first track, they create this relaxing wall of sound that’s rich with fuzzy guitar riffs, deep bass grooves, and a solid, slow-burn drum beat. It’s the kind of album that pulls you in and keeps you there, sinking you deeper into its layers with every minute.
The guitar tones are big and gritty, hitting that classic stoner vibe with repetitive riffs that feel almost trance-like, building up this meditative, spaced-out atmosphere. They didn’t skimp on the bass either; it’s thick and feels grounded, driving each song forward with a steady pulse. The drum are right on point - powerful but never overpowering. Together, the rhythm section creates this relentless momentum that keeps the whole album chugging along in a way that feels cohesive but never monotonous.
There are some subtle effects and synth layers that add a haunting, spacey dimension, giving it that “cosmic” feel that’s perfect for zoning out. This extra layer works well to expand the sound without feeling overdone. That said, the mix does get a little thick at times - some of the details can get buried, and it might leave you wanting just a touch more clarity to let certain parts breathe. But honestly, that thick, immersive vibe is part of what makes Saturnalia work, so it’s a minor trade-off.
Vocally, Wizzerd goes for a pretty understated approach that suits the music’s vibe. The vocals are mixed a little lower, blending into the background rather than taking center stage. This creates a haunting, almost ghostly effect, adding another layer of mystique to the album. On the flip side, this subtle vocal presence might feel a bit too mellow for those who prefer stronger vocal lines, but for what they’re going for, it works well.
The album doesn’t drag, which is impressive given the genre’s tendency to take its time. Wizzerd keeps things interesting by varying the intensity just enough to keep you engaged, creating this push-and-pull dynamic that lets the listener breathe in between the heaviest moments. It’s well-constructed and thought-out, and the flow from track to track feels natural and intentional.
While Saturnalia doesn’t exactly reinvent stoner/doom, it nails the essentials and does so with a lot of character. If you’re a fan of heavy, atmospheric doom that takes you on a ride, this album delivers. Sure, a bit more space in the mix could give it more definition, but there’s no denying the immersive quality they’ve achieved here. Overall, it’s a solid 4 out of 5, and one that’s worth a listen (or three) if you’re in the mood to get lost in a deep, fuzzy soundscape.
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Thanks to Grand Sounds PR.