Vicegrip: Hardcore's Iron Fist Smashes the Scene

Vicegrip: Breaking Jaws and Barriers with Every Riff Drawn & Quartered de Vicegrip If you think hardcore is dead, Vicegrip from Boston is here to grind your face into the pavement and prove you wrong. This band isn’t just another name on a flyer, they’re a sonic sledgehammer, pounding out anthems for the disaffected, the pissed-off, and the never-say-die. Vicegrip’s rise from the underground is a testament to what happens when you mix raw talent, relentless drive, and a complete disregard for the rules. Forget the sanitized, Spotify-friendly sound, Vicegrip is pure, unfiltered aggression, and they’re not asking for permission. Formed in the fires of the modern hardcore scene, Vicegrip’s sound is a brutal cocktail of metallic riffs, breakneck drums, and vocals that could strip paint off the walls. Their influences are clear, think classic NYHC, but with a modern edge and a chip on their shoulder the size of a Marshall stack. Every show is a warzone, every record a declaration ...

Al Cisneros (OM, Sleep) and David Eugene Edwards (Wovenhand, 16 Horsepower) Announce Collaborative Project

Al Cisneros and David Eugene Edwards Collaborative Project

In a thrilling announcement for fans of doom metal, folk, and psychedelic rock, Al Cisneros, renowned for his work with OM and Sleep, is joining forces with David Eugene Edwards, the driving force behind Wovenhand and 16 Horsepower. According to a recent news piece on Metalorgie, the duo is set to release two collaborative tracks, "Pillar Of Fire" and "Capernaüm," on April 25th through Drag City Records. This unexpected pairing promises a unique sonic experience, blending the distinct styles of two influential figures in their respective genres.

Al Cisneros2 (cropped)

Al Cisneros's contribution to the stoner and doom metal scene is undeniable. As the bassist and vocalist for Sleep, he helped pioneer a sound characterized by downtuned riffs, hypnotic rhythms, and sprawling compositions. Sleep's "Dopesmoker," an hour-long epic dedicated to the joys of cannabis, remains a landmark album in the genre. Following Sleep's hiatus, Cisneros formed OM, a duo that explores minimalist and meditative soundscapes, often drawing inspiration from Eastern religious traditions. OM's music is characterized by droning basslines, chanted vocals, and a profound sense of spirituality, creating an immersive and transcendent listening experience. His distinctive bass playing, marked by its powerful low end and rhythmic complexity, has made him one of the most respected figures in underground metal.


Edwardsgit

David Eugene Edwards, on the other hand, brings a unique blend of Americana, folk, and gothic rock to the collaboration. As the frontman of 16 Horsepower, he crafted a sound that was both haunting and evocative, drawing on elements of country, blues, and religious fervor. Edwards's distinctive vocals, characterized by their raw emotion and fervent delivery, are a defining feature of his music. With Wovenhand, he has continued to explore similar themes, blending elements of folk, post-rock, and experimental music to create a sound that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His songwriting often explores themes of faith, redemption, and the darker aspects of the human condition, creating a compelling and often unsettling listening experience.

The collaboration between Cisneros and Edwards is particularly intriguing given their diverse backgrounds and musical approaches. While Cisneros is known for his heavy, droning soundscapes, Edwards is celebrated for his raw, emotive vocals and his exploration of Americana and folk traditions. The combination of these two distinct styles promises a unique and compelling listening experience. "Pillar Of Fire" and "Capernaüm" offer a fusion of doom metal, folk, psychedelic rock, and country influences, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and entirely new. The release is highly anticipated by fans eager to witness the creative synergy between these two iconic musicians.

The upcoming release on Drag City Records adds to the anticipation. Drag City is renowned for its eclectic roster and its commitment to releasing innovative and experimental music, making it a fitting home for this collaborative project. The label has a history of supporting artists who push boundaries and challenge conventions, and the collaboration between Cisneros and Edwards is a testament to their continued dedication to showcasing unique and visionary talent. As April 25th approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sonic world created by Al Cisneros and David Eugene Edwards, a world where the boundaries of genre blur and the possibilities of musical collaboration are fully realized. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of doom metal, folk, and experimental music.


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