10 Great Metal Albums (For People Who Don't Like Metal)
5. Sleep - Dopesmoker
Sleep’s stoner metal masterpiece is anything but subtle. Dopesmoker comprises (on its definitive 2012 release) two tracks, the first being over an hour in length, and the lyrical content is conceptualised around a far off planet whose iconography is based firmly around the band’s beloved ganja.
If that sounds good, rather than deeply offputting, then this is a record for you. The music is immersive to say the least, with the first track especially built around relentless, droning, grinding guitars. The repetition is key to the majesty of the music; it bludgeons you into submission, until you’re fully engrossed in the world of the record.
Indeed in spite of its volume and grit, Dopesmoker is a surprisingly relaxing listen. For 60+ minutes of the title track, the rhythm never changes, and the monolithic guitars adopt a hypnotic quality. When the band break from their pattern momentarily, for a quick lead line or bass riff, it’s genuinely thrilling.
Sleep worked for years on this record, only for their record label to deem it completely unmarketable. It’s an acquired taste, for sure, but if you can get on Sleep’s wavelength, it’s a wild place to be.