Sludgeburg are out of Alberta and Bogmess is their first EP. From what I read, Pat and Rob started it after going back into old sludge records, then brought Adam and John in later. Makes sense, because this already sounds like four people who know where they want to sit sonically.
It’s quick too. Three tracks and a remix (Palantir Dancemix '99). No dragging it out.
"Palantir" starts with this slow riff that just hangs there for a second before it starts moving. Felt like one of those riffs where you know after ten seconds whether it’s gonna work or not. This one does. Thick tone, loads of fuzz, real ugly in the right way.
"The Great Buffalo" is a bit heavier (with marching rhythms). Slower too. That one felt like the floor dropping a little lower. I caught myself turning it up halfway through without thinking.
"Man with Tail" took longer. First listen I didn’t pay much attention to it. Second time around it clicked. There’s a strange turn in the riff that throws it sideways for a bit. Small thing, but that was the part I remembered later.
Vocals are buried in there pretty deep, almost fighting with the guitars. Better than having them sit too clean over everything.
Sound of the EP is rough, which helps. Amp hum, cymbals splashing too hard, bass rattling around underneath. Reminded me of hearing local bands in rehearsal rooms where the walls shook every time the drummer hit the kick.
That remix at the end… honestly, no idea. Didn’t skip it, didn’t fully get it either.
They’ve already played some Calgary shows and apparently there’s more coming. Good. Three tracks wasn’t enough.
I’d listen to a full record from these guys tomorrow if it showed up.
https://www.facebook.com/Sludgeburg/
