Crowbar "Odd Fellows Rest" CD

This album took me by surprise on first listen. I was familiar with Crowbar for years but was mostly into their song “Existence is Punishment” from their self titled release. Subsequent listens to their other works were good but something was always lacking, mainly due to the production. Vocalist Kirk has a powerful voice that is dripped in emotion hardly found in metal these days that does not cause the listener to laugh hysterically, and the music was thick and sludgy but the overall sound seemed like it could be heavier. All these problems were rectified on this album.
The guitar tone absolutely crushes. Heavy as balls, you will find yourself constantly head banging along to this record. Despite it being so pummeling, there are lots of moments where the guitar work is quite melodic without sacrificing heaviness. On "December's Spawn" the reverb and feedback is astounding, taking your mind to another dimension. The vocals are at their best, gruff and strong but still conveying a genuine sense of endearment. The songwriting is impeccable, not a single bad track. Every one well written with great hooks and riffs, with the odd crawling breakdowns thrown in that you can lose your shit too.
As Crowbar is considered “sludge metal”, that is, the combination of doom metal and hardcore punk, there are very few fast hardcore passages on this record. It’s smothered in gloomy doom with lyrics that are touching and introspective. I honestly believe this album should be more celebrated in the metal world. There is not a single fault, get it and be overwhelmed by the pain and suffering.

Sample: https://www.youtube.com/watch?...