As the glut of stoner rock becomes deeper and less buzzed, it’s nice to see bands like Alabama Thunderpussy taking the genre into heavier and dirtier directions, content to expand, maximize and rock hard.

What it comes down to is that when the band screams out “Play This Record Loud!!!” on the back sleeve, they aren’t kidding. I’m impressed with Staring At The Divine on several levels, really. The first being songwriting. Put away all your pre-suppositions of what stoner rock might be, kids. This isn’t the usual three fuzzed-out chords, or the Sabbath-worship of doom. It’s down-tuned, speed-drenched rawk ‘n’ rawl, written with precision, direction and conviction. The next element that is especially striking is performance; Alabama Thunderpussy is not afraid to push forth with reckless abandon (“Ol’ Unfaithful”), thick, aggregate riffing (“Whore Adore”) or Southern-style, despondent picking (“Hunting By Echo”).

 Staring At The Divine is a sonically and aesthetically pleasing experience, and a record that has pretty much renewed my faith in all things stoner (even given my straightedge disposition). You can’t ask for much more; any and all commendation Staring At The Divine receives is warranted.

[Visit the band's website]

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