REVIEW: GREEN LUNG - Black Harvest

 

GREEN LUNG - Black Harvest

Svart Records

This album was a gift from one of my best friends, who recommended that I check out this band he recently discovered. It's always exciting to explore new music, especially when it comes from a friend's enthusiastic recommendation. GREEN LUNG's "Black Harvest" is a testament to the thriving heavy metal scene in England, where new bands are not just embracing traditional heavy metal roots but also striving to reinvent them.

From the very first track, it’s clear that GREEN LUNG holds a deep love for BLACK SABBATH and the iconic 70s hard rock sound. The influence of these legendary bands is palpable throughout the album, with the keyboards particularly standing out. They have a distinct sound that brings to mind the grandiose and immersive style of bands like URIAH HEEP and DEEP PURPLE. The band's ability to weave these influences into their music while maintaining a fresh and contemporary feel is truly commendable.

One of the standout aspects of "Black Harvest" is its lyrical content. The lyrics are steeped in occult horror themes, a nod to the early works of BLACK SABBATH. This thematic choice not only pays homage to the genre's pioneers but also adds a layer of depth and intrigue to the album. The storytelling within the lyrics is vivid and evocative, drawing listeners into a world of dark mysticism and eerie narratives.

What truly sets GREEN LUNG apart from other bands in the genre is their ability to infuse their music with originality and personality. While many bands might fall into the trap of becoming mere clones of their influences, GREEN LUNG manages to avoid this pitfall. Their music is a fresh take on classic forms, breathing new life into traditional heavy metal. Each track on the album showcases the band's enthusiasm and passion for their craft, making "Black Harvest" a captivating listen from start to finish.

Despite the stoner metal tag that has been associated with this release, it's important to recognize that "Black Harvest" is fundamentally a traditional heavy metal album. The sound is raw, powerful, and evocative of the early days of metal, capturing the essence of the genre in its purest form. The riffs are heavy and infectious, the solos are electrifying, and the rhythm section provides a solid backbone to the band's sound.

In addition to their musical prowess, GREEN LUNG's ability to craft memorable and engaging songs is evident throughout the album. Tracks like "The Harrowing", “Old Gods” and "Reaper's Scythe" are perfect examples of the band's skill in creating songs that are both anthemic and haunting. The production quality is top-notch, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive and balanced sound.

Overall, "Black Harvest" by GREEN LUNG is a highly recommended album for any metal enthusiast. It's a masterful blend of traditional heavy metal and 70s hard rock influences, infused with a unique personality and fresh ideas. This album is a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre and a promising sign of what the future holds for GREEN LUNG. Give it a listen, and you won't be disappointed.

Nick Parastatidis