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MASSASAUGA
The Only Good Wizard Is A Dead Wizard EP

Self-released (2023)
Rating: 8/10

It’s good to see Coventry, England-based Massasauga back with another bewitching rumble. I really enjoyed their last EP – Exorcisms And Psychic Visions (2022) – and this new outing is another step in the right direction with its lighter shades of doom and almost nonchalant trudges led by equally languid vocals. Nothing Massasauga does feels forced as this time the band leads us through several brooding tales inspired by witch trials.

I don’t want to pigeonhole this release as “doom metal” as Massasauga have so much more, for instance the title track has somewhat of a Goth / new wave vibe, more so in the vocals, but it’s catchy, dark and quintessentially British in its rainy trundle. Meanwhile, ‘Dungeon Crawler’ (featuring guest vocals from Ambrius frontman Sam Shiers) is the band at its edgiest; the driving black rhythms and aggressive vocals give the track a raw, galloping stride mixed with a gritty early 80s New Wave Of British Heavy Metal feel.

The fact that so many ingredients spring to mind showcases the variety on offer. Just listen to the fluid yet sun baked coolness of ‘Don’t Be Scared Of The Dark’ as a fine example of how the band oozes seamlessly between styles while maintaining a dark edge.

Every time I hear a new release from this band I imagine them touring with fellow countrymen Possessor, both of whom have successfully tapped into the joys of creating occult-driven horror rock. These are great rockin’ tunes for ghouls and phantom horses.

Neil Arnold

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