In the realm of heavy music, few bands have managed to evolve and refine their sound as consistently as Desert Storm. For nearly two decades, they've been a cornerstone of England's underground, with their music spanning the genres of stoner, southern rock, and sludge. The band's journey has been one of trial and error, but their recent releases, particularly 'Buried Under the Weight of Reason', showcase a maturity and cohesion that sets them apart. This album is a testament to their ability to blend their diverse influences into a unique and captivating sound.
The opening track, 'Newfound Respect', immediately sets the tone for the album. It's a blunter, more dynamic version of their previous work, with guitars that have thickened into a sludge/doom/stoner hybrid. The band's songwriting has evolved, with a focus on delivering crushing, irresistible grooves. This is evident in tracks like 'Woodsman' and 'Shamanic Echoes', where the group adds nuance through minimalist, hook-heavy phrasing. The album's strength lies in its ability to balance technical complexity with a groove that is both exciting and fresh.
Matthew Ryan's vocals, historically Desert Storm's weak point, have been polished and refined. His grizzled, Crowbar-like growl provides a solid foundation for the band's low-frequency bulk. While his vocals don't always elevate the high-caliber riffs, they sit comfortably in the mix, serving their purpose without overreaching. However, there are inconsistencies, particularly in 'Woodsman', where his mechanical chanting feels out of place.
The album's production and mix, while generally strong, have some flaws. The compressed mix masks the finer nuances, such as the cowbell on 'Twelve Seasons'. Additionally, the band's commitment to the almighty riff sometimes results in songs feeling overextended, particularly on the longer cuts. The inclusion of the interlude 'Carry the Weight' also feels unnecessary.
Despite these minor flaws, 'Buried Under the Weight of Reason' is a cause for celebration for Desert Storm. By staying within their established limits, they have created a record that is not only good but easily their best to date. The songwriting and groove are infectious, with enough weight to kill an elephant. It's a damn good time and a reminder that sometimes, that's all a record needs to be.
Rating: Very Good! DR: 5 | Format Reviewed: 320 kb/s mp3 Label: Heavy Psych Sounds (https://heavypsychsounds.com/) Websites: desertstorm.bandcamp.com/music | desertstormband.com (http://desertstormband.com/) | facebook.com/desertstormuk Releases Worldwide: March 6th, 2026
