This is the latest EP from UK stoner rock/metal band Ghozer.
Following on from 2022’s solid Black Lotus, Ghozer have now returned with Forest of Bones, a new 22-minute EP. Forest of Bones contains four tracks – three new originals and a cover of a song by The Beatles.
Forest of Bones continues on from where Black Lotus left off, only the band have gone deeper, darker, and heavier. There’s more crunch to the guitars, and the vocalist has greater charisma and presence. The same building blocks are in place – stoner/doom/sludge – but refined, and grungier. Ghozer have learned from their debut album, and have forged this new material by concentrating on their strengths.
The opening title track is a scorcher. Choice riffs and a solid showcase for the singer’s hook-laden vocals, it’s simply a great song. I could say the same of The Dawn too, albeit in a different way. It’s far more mood-based, and really reminds me of a cross between Hail the Void and Sunnata, which is a huge compliment. It’s hypnotic and atmospheric.
The next song – Offal Bin Hooker – is far more upbeat and energetic. It’s more overtly stoner-esque than the previous two and shows the band’s Orange Goblin influence, (although it also remind me of Soil). The EP closes with I Want You (She’s So Heavy) by The Beatles, which is about as good as any cover song ever is.
Ghozer have put their best feet forward on Forest of Bones and it’s good to see them developing their sound further. I can’t wait to hear more from the band in the future, as this EP – the first two songs in particular – has massively impressed. Make sure you give this a listen.
Wonderbox Metal 