Written by Chad Thomas Carsten

The glory days of 1960’s/1970’s acid garage rock and doom metal are alive and well thanks to the psychedelic riffage haze brought forth by the mighty frontwoman Lori S. and her stoner metal vibes through the awe-inspiring tunes of the influential Acid King! As the newly released Acid King LP ‘Beyond Vision’ is a truly unique metallic experience. From the moment the album starts, it is clear that this effort aims to take listeners on an intense journey through powerful sonic landscapes and emotions. The combination of raw and unpredictable drumming soundscapes, paired with deeply unsettling guitar vibes, creates an atmosphere that is disconcerting yet strangely captivating. Every song has its own character and energy, but ultimately serves to build towards a greater purpose; to make the listener feel uncomfortable and out of touch with reality. It’s an album that forces one to confront the darker aspects of their mind in order to engage with it fully. The overall effect is mesmerizing yet intimidating; it’s music that challenges you while still offering moments of transcendence and beauty.

Three idiosyncratic music risk factors actually help keep Acid King sonically, musically fresh; first, for the first time the band have used synthesisers on a studio release. Thus, creating a unique and futuristic sound for Acid King. Secondly, the vocal performances from Lori. S. somehow seem more powerful than ever before. And that might be due to a newfound confidence in their abilities and their willingness to step outside their previous comfort zone. Finally, there is an added element to this record which has been missing from previous ones – a sense of intimacy and emotion that can’t be denied. These elements make this album one of their best yet! The way Acid King have incorporated synthesizers into their sound has allowed them to create something fresh and exciting that wasn’t possible before.

Above all, The Acid King’s ‘Beyond Vision’ is a positive mind-bending musical experience. From the very beginning of the the instant classic record, the listener is drawn in by its entrancing soundscape, one that flows seamlessly into a twisted atmosphere. It’s like being transported to a different world; one filled with nothing but trippy guitar riffs that surround you in a galactic ocean of music. The ethereal melodies meshing together create dreamy harmonies while thick, heavy drums set the stage for a chaotic journey through this otherworldly domain. Each transition between notes brings surprises as you never know what will happen next in this fascinating sonic ecosystem.

The transitions between sections are impeccable and each part adds to the overall uniqueness of ‘Beyond Vision’. Its 42 minuets and 10 seconds of audio bliss; as every second is magical and captivating in its own way and will stay in the minds and hearts of metal-heads for years to come due to its remarkable dreamlike hard rocking soundscape.

Rating 10/10

Support Acid King here: https://www.bluesfuneral.com/search?q=Acid+King