Leather Lung – ‘Graveside Grin’

Boogie Metal

Magnetic Eye Records

Release Date – March 15^th 2024

Review By Smudge

Leather Lung’s debut album, steeped in the essence of “boogie metal,” marks a thrilling entry into the realm of gritty, unapologetic rock. Emerging from the vibrant punk and hardcore scene of Boston in 2012, this band has steadily built a reputation for their electrifying sound, punctuated by raucous energy and a distinct penchant for craft beer – a fact that certainly piques curiosity.

From the very first chords of “Spit In The Casket,” it’s evident that Leather Lung means business. The distorted guitars set the stage for an infectious groove, complemented by Mike’s rugged vocals that command attention. The rollicking vibes continue with “Big Bad Bodega Cat,” a homage to ZZ Top with its infectious boogie rhythm. Tracks like “Freewheelin’ Maniac” and “Empty Bottle Boogie” deliver on their promises, offering a relentless onslaught of loud, dirty, and downright nasty rock ‘n’ roll.

Yet, amidst the chaos, Leather Lung demonstrates an adeptness at navigating various sonic territories. “Guilty Pleasure” plunges into grinding doom before seamlessly transitioning into a hardcore groove metal frenzy. “Macrodose Interlude” offers a brief respite, showcasing fuzzy basslines and raging guitar solos, while “La La Land” reintroduces listeners to an insistent groove and tribal rhythms that demand movement.

“Doom rears its head again with ‘Twisting Flowers,’ juxtaposing death metal vocals against a backdrop of haunting melodies. Meanwhile, “Headstone” tantalizes with a funky psych intro before erupting into a cacophony of deathly grooves. “Cornered Animal” boasts a bass-heavy riff and aggressive vocals, leading into the final track, “Raised Me Rowdy,” a bluesy boogie number that encapsulates Leather Lung’s unapologetically raw aesthetic.

Throughout the album, Leather Lung showcases a keen understanding of their craft, expertly blending harsh vocals with infectious grooves and intricate riffs. It’s a sonic journey that’s rough, raw, and undeniably loud, yet peppered with subtleties that keep listeners engaged from start to finish.

Track List:

1. Spit In The Casket
2. Big Bad Bodega Cat
3. Freewheelin’ Maniac
4. Empty Bottle Boogie
5. Guilty Pleasure
6. Macrodose (Interlude)
7. La La Land
8. Twisting Flowers
9. Headstone
10. Cornered Animal
11. Raised Me Rowdy