Hempire - The Weight

 

 

Hempire - The Weight
Self-released - 2025
Stoner, Metal
Rated: ****

Here's to ya! The second release from North Carolina bar-brawling powerhouse Hempire has arrived! As their first was dubbed a demo by the band themselves, we can state with a certain amount of certainty that The Weight is their first official full length. And what a blast it is. Like a roaring bull that doesn't give a shit about the red rag but aims straight for the jackpot with the sole purpose of pinning the bullfighter's balls to his horns and roast them over a campfire like a seasoned pro to enjoy a nice reverse delicacy for dinner. No need to say he washes it down with a few cold beers, because this is relentless stoner rock - more down & dirty than the harem of cows that's eagerly waiting in the farmhouse brothel for the bull to bring them a visit.

But let's skip the metaphors. As the title suggests, this is a weighty affair with more than enough metal thrown in to give the party that extra punch in the gut. A combination of fury and melody that brings to mind bands like Borgo Pass and Beaten Back To Pure. A huge wall of guitars, a steady rhythm section and raunchy vocals are the name of the game. But don't think it sounds all the same, because it doesn't. 'Nugrunner' and 'The Grind' for example are fast-paced spark plugs to get you in a headbanging mood, while 'Without the Darkness' and 'Wasn't Born Yesterday' add a dynamic touch for some much-needed variation. 'Deathbringers, Inc.' on the other hand is Hempire's way of experimenting with changes in pace. It has a frantic, pulsating main rhythm that feel's totally off-beat, but isn't, and beholds some of the slower passages the album has to offer - with an almost semi-ballad-like feel at the end. It's composition-wise the most interesting song of the bunch. And then there are the nice, haunting instrumental 'Bongbroth' and the head-nodding, driving groove of 'Ain't Leavin' Here Alive' that rounds of this ten track gem.

Despite the title of the final song, both the band and me still seem to be very much alive after the last chord has faded away. Something that can't be said of the ignorant bullfighter that came to the party totally unprepared and tried to challenge/tame that raging animal called Hempire. So, if there's one lesson to be learned here, it's to go with the flow and embrace all the blows that get thrown at you as if it's a friendly pat on the back. Chances are you'll live happily ever after for a long, long time.

(Written by Ronny Dijksterhuis)

Bandcamp

Facebook

Instagram

Good Boy PR