[Used] Acid King — III LP

Acid King
III — Full-Length Album, 12" LP

Acid King's III, originally released in 2005, stands as a monumental entry in the stoner doom genre, showcasing the band's evolution and mastery over their signature sound. As the third full-length release from Acid King, III solidified the band's place in the stoner doom pantheon. It showcases their growth from earlier works like Zoroaster and Busse Woods, offering a more refined and confident sound. The album remains a touchstone for fans and a benchmark for bands within the genre.

The album opens with "2 Wheel Nation," setting a tone of heavy, syrupy riffage reminiscent of Goatsnake, with a mid-paced groove that immediately immerses the listener. Tracks like "Heavy Load" and "Bad Vision" delve deeper into a sludgier, more hypnotic territory, characterized by Lori S.'s sinuous guitar phrases and echoing vocals. The centerpiece, "War of the Mind," is a 12-minute opus that exemplifies the band's ability to build and sustain a meditative atmosphere, drawing comparisons to the likes of Sleep and YOB.

Throughout the album, the trio — Lori S. on vocals and guitar, Guy Pinhas on bass, and Joey Osbourne on drums — demonstrates a cohesive synergy. Pinhas's bass provides a throaty, fuzzy foundation that complements Lori's guitar work, while Osbourne's drumming, though occasionally loose, adds to the album's overall raw and organic feel.

Produced by Billy Anderson, known for his work with bands like Sleep and Neurosis, III benefits from a production that emphasizes the low end without sacrificing clarity. The mix allows each instrument to breathe, creating a dense yet spacious soundscape that enhances the album's immersive quality.

III is not just an album but an experience. Its hypnotic rhythms and ethereal vocals create a trance-like state, inviting listeners into a world of fuzz-laden riffs and psychedelic overtones. The album's ability to balance heaviness with melody makes it accessible to newcomers while still satisfying longtime fans of the genre.

Band: Acid King
Title: III 
Label: Kreation Records
Format: Full-length album, LP, 12" Vinyl, Limited Edition, Reissue, 3-Way Blend Color
Release Date: 2013 (Originally 2005)
Genre / Style: Stoner Doom Metal
Streaming Link: Bandcamp

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