Album Review: Shi – Basement Wizard (Self Released)

Established in 2015, Shi have been honing their brew of doom for distribution to a dive bar near you. After releasing their first full-length album “Depressive Suicidal Stoner Doom” in January 2020, Shi used the remaining year to write and record their upcoming follow-up record. “Basement Wizard” is set for an October 15th 2021 release.

Who doesn’t love a bit of ‘depressive suicidal stoner doom’?

Does it sound like a bit much? Maybe a bit hyperbole? Well, close the shades, turn off your phone and press play on Basement Wizard and you’ll find yourself in a dark and very heavy place.

To call Basement Wizard an oppressive sounding release is to underplay just how crushing Shi’s style of fuzzy and reverb-heavy stoner doom is. We have here a ten-track album that squeezes the mind, body and soul. It’s a careening crash of noise, played at a tempo that infects the senses and makes it hard to enjoy. However, enjoy most will as the focus and earnest way in which Shi deliver this sound is highly addictive.

Who cares if it makes you feel like throwing yourself off a cliff? Ok, it’s not that depressing or suicidal but it does exude a darkness that wraps around like a shroud. Shi aren’t looking to cuddle you, to comfort or make you feel better. They’re grabbing you by the scruff of the neck and dragging you kicking and screaming into their doomy mire.

With music this good, music this heavy, music this oppressive, who could resist? Shi deserve a ton more attention and hopefully, Basement Wizard will be the mean and meaty release to get them it.

Shi – Basement Wizard Full Track Listing:

1. Best Laid Plans
2. Rehash
3. Basement Wizard
4. We’ll Bang, OK?
5. The Big Sad
6. Interlude
7. Lawn Care for Adults
8. Trough Guzzler
9. High Praise
10. At Wit’s End

Links

Bandcamp | Spotify | Facebook | Instagram