"Mouths of Madness" is the latest release from San Francisco doom / stoner rock outfit Orchid. Nowadays it's difficult for the heirs of the Sabbath to stand out in the crowd, but Orchid reminds skeptics how it can be done with well crafted, interesting, and powerful songs. While it may not be the heaviest of Sabbath-influenced music out there, "Mouths of Madness" pays homage to the godfathers of doom while incorporating other interesting sounds reminiscent of Pentagram, Blue Oyster Cult, and Trouble. Classic metal fans and newer doom freaks alike can enjoy jams such as "Silent One" that begins with Church of Misery-esque power before diving into a retro joyride. "See You On The Other Side" and "Leaving it All Behind" each clock in over seven minutes, yet they demonstrate that lengthy songs don't necessarily have to alienate listeners and can keep a solid energetic pace and hold attention with interesting time signatures and catchy riffs. While solid, the album does lack in certain areas. Primarily, many of the songs lack strong character due to some uneventful drumming by Carter Kennedy who seems to be mindful not to overshadow the power of some very crushing riffs. Likewise, Mark Thomas Baker's guitar playing, although fantastic and highlighted by the album's clear production, doesn't offer as much lead guitar thrills as I was hoping for. "Nomad," for example, contains a small and underplayed lead that irritates rather than leaves one begging for more. If you're expecting the wheel to be reinvented you may be left disappointed, but if you're looking for a solid hard rock record in 2013 this may be a record you want to pick up.
7.5 / 10
- Joe