Album Review: Orange Goblin – Science, Not Fiction

🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: The Fire at the Centre of the Earth Is Mine
Track 2: (Not) Rocket Science
Track 3: Ascend the Negative
Track 4: False Hope Diet
Track 5: Cemetery Rats
Track 6: The Fury of a Patient Man
Track 7: Gemini (Twins of Evil)
Track 8: The Justice Knife
Track 9: End of Transmission

🎸 Album Review:
Orange Goblin’s latest offering, ‘Science, Not Fiction’, is a thunderous display of their signature blend of stoner rock, doom metal, and heavy blues. The album, released as the band’s ninth studio effort, sees them delving deeper into their sonic exploration while maintaining the raw, gritty energy that has come to define their sound over the years.

From the opening track, “The Fire at the Centre of the Earth Is Mine,” Orange Goblin sets the tone for the album with a relentless barrage of crushing riffs, pounding drums, and fiery vocals. The band wastes no time in showcasing their technical prowess and tight musicianship, creating a sound that is both aggressive and melodic, with a touch of psychedelic flair.

Thematically, ‘Science, Not Fiction’ delves into a range of topics, from personal struggles to societal issues, all wrapped in a cloak of dark, brooding imagery. Tracks like “(Not) Rocket Science” and “False Hope Diet” tackle themes of disillusionment and frustration, while “Cemetery Rats” paints a vivid picture of decay and despair. The album’s title itself hints at a focus on reality over fantasy, with the band’s lyrics often reflecting a sense of harsh truths and bitter realities.

Standout tracks on the album include “Ascend the Negative,” a relentless onslaught of crushing riffs and pounding drums that showcases Orange Goblin at their heaviest. The track builds to a crescendo of explosive energy, with vocalist Ben Ward delivering a powerful performance that is equal parts guttural and emotive. “The Fury of a Patient Man” is another highlight, featuring a dynamic interplay of heavy grooves and soaring melodies that culminate in a cathartic release of pent-up energy.

In comparison to their previous albums, ‘Science, Not Fiction’ sees Orange Goblin further refining their sound and pushing their boundaries. While their earlier works were characterized by a more straightforward approach to stoner rock and doom metal, this album demonstrates a greater level of complexity and depth in both songwriting and musicianship. The band’s evolution is evident in tracks like “Gemini (Twins of Evil)” and “The Justice Knife,” which showcase a more nuanced approach to their trademark heavy sound.

Overall, ‘Science, Not Fiction’ is a tour de force of heavy rock music that solidifies Orange Goblin’s status as one of the leading bands in the stoner metal scene. The album is a testament to the band’s enduring creativity and passion for their craft, with each track offering a unique blend of crushing riffs, infectious grooves, and powerful vocals. Fans of Orange Goblin will find much to love in this latest release, while newcomers will be drawn in by the band’s undeniable energy and intensity.

In conclusion, ‘Science, Not Fiction’ is a must-listen for any fan of heavy rock music, showcasing Orange Goblin at the peak of their powers and reaffirming their status as pioneers of the stoner metal genre. With its blend of raw energy, intense emotion, and dark imagery, this album is a true sonic journey that demands to be experienced in its full, unbridled glory.