Harmonicraft

Torche

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Torche has always had a knack for making super heavy rock music and making it insanely infectious at the same time. Whether they are operating in the lanes of sludge, stoner, doom, or drone metal there's always something about their process that makes their music really accessible. This is the band I would often point non-fans of metal or loud rock to because I believe Torche is that easy gateway into heavier music. They have many great records but 2012's Harmonicraft is probably the best point of entry.

Kicking lowers the listener in to a false sense of security by kicking off with a pretty guitar lead that is relatively high on its register. However, it doesn't take long for the song's main hook to come barreling in showcasing that classic heavy de-tuned guitar sound and Steve Brook's love for odd-metered guitar riffs. The ear-worm guitar riffs continue with tracks like Snakes Are Charmed, who's main riff is perhaps the flashiest on the entire record. The riff is doubled up with one side raised up an octave, but both sides are in total lockstep giving the appearance that it is just one giant sound.

Despite being labeled as a sludge and stoner metal band, genres that are typically more down-tempo, the real ones are familiar with Torche's speedy prowess. Tracks like Walk It Off and Sky Trials feel blisteringly fast at just a minute and change. The former features an absolutely rippin' guitar solo that makes pretty cool use of an octavia pedal while the latter lives up to its namesake with some soaring vocals provided by Brooks. Solitary Traveler is perhaps my favourite moment on the record because it is a song that doesn't sound anything like the rest of Torche's catalogue. The tone of the track is despondent with its slow pacing and use of space between drum hits. Brooks' voice hangs in the background with tons of reverb; feeling distant and detached.

Torche is a rare breed. No other rock act in my opinion can create such heavy and crushing metal that is palatable to the 'every man'. Many bands have tried, but Torche pulls it off so naturally that it never feels forced or like a gimmick. Time and time again I read hot takes along the lines of "there is no good rock/guitar music anymore" and all I can think to myself is... they clearly have never heard of Torche.