Album Review: Baroness – Stone
Reviewed by Tim Finch
It was back in September of 2000 that Baroness first revealed they had roughly thirty songs written in readiness for their sixth studio album. Obviously, a global pandemic then got in the way of any real progress and when restrictions dropped the band took on tours across North America and the EU, maintaining momentum with the fans and ensuring they were at the forefront of our minds.
As the dust now settles on that period of time, Baroness are finally ready to unleash what has become their sixth studio album ‘Stone’. The album a sonic journey of epic proportions featuring diverse and emotive songs, showcasing the band's continued evolution as musicians and their ability to craft intricate, powerful, and thought-provoking music.
After the short, acoustic introduction of 'Embers’ which leaves the listener in a state of relaxation, they are then thrown headlong into the aural assault of ‘Stone’. ‘Last Word’ a melting pot of expansive riffs and harmonised vocals, highlighted by what can only be described as an epic guitar solo. Whilst ‘Beneath the Rose’ is best described as “Crowbar on acid”. It’s heavy, its dark, it features some real sludge goodness, but at a wicked fast pace.
‘Choir’ takes on a different tone, featuring chugging guitars and a spoken word element introducing the feel of a narrator walking you through this journey. Whilst the dual vocal harmony that closes ‘The Dirge’ feels like you are being serenaded by a religious cult.
‘Stone’ is the most well rounded Baroness album to date, and to be honest it’s a struggle to put into words just how good this album is. It has a depth of sound to keep the listener enthralled throughout, it’s multi-dimensional feel ensures no song sounds the same and offers a unique take with each passing minute. 'Stone' is a testament to their artistic growth and an album that will undoubtedly captivate both longtime fans and newcomers to the world of Baroness.
