The legendary doom metal band, The Obsessed, has once again captivated the heavy music scene with its latest endeavor. With a new album on the horizon, the band has signed with Heavy Psych Sounds Records, marking a significant moment in its illustrious career. This partnership is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
The Obsessed, formed in 1978, has been a cornerstone of the doom metal and underground hard rock genres. Their distinctive sound, characterized by Scott "Wino" Weinrich's haunting vocals and guitar wizardry, has inspired countless bands and shaped the landscape of heavy music. The band's early days in the Baltimore/D.C. area during the hardcore punk movement were pivotal, earning them the respect of punk legends like Black Flag and Bad Brains.
What makes The Obsessed truly fascinating is their ability to bridge the gap between heavy metal and punk. Their attitude and spirit have earned them the title of "America's Motörhead," a nod to their raw and unfiltered approach to music. The band's influence is evident in the seminal albums they released, including their eponymous debut, "The Obsessed," and subsequent records like "Lunar Womb" and "The Church Within." These albums not only shaped the doom scene but also paved the way for future heavy rock bands.
However, The Obsessed took a hiatus after releasing "The Church Within" on Columbia Records. During this time, Wino pursued various critically acclaimed projects, such as Spirit Caravan, The Hidden Hand, and Shrinebuilder, showcasing his versatility and passion for music. The band's reunion in 2016, with the addition of drummer Brian "Dawg" Costantino, marked a new chapter in their legacy, and they have been kicking ass and taking names ever since.
The Obsessed's latest record, "Gilded Sorrow," released in early 2024 on Ripple Music, was lauded as a must-listen for fans of the genre. The band's ability to evolve while staying true to its roots is a testament to its enduring appeal. Now, with the new album in the works and the signing to Heavy Psych Sounds, The Obsessed is poised to captivate audiences once again.
The band's new lineup, featuring Scott "Wino" Weinrich, Jason Taylor, Chris Angleberger, and Bob Pantella, is a powerful ensemble of heavy rock titans. Their collaboration promises to deliver a new chapter in The Obsessed's legacy, blending their iconic sound with the energy and excitement of Heavy Psych Sounds. The anticipation for the new album is palpable, and fans can expect a thrilling journey into the world of doom metal.
In my opinion, The Obsessed's signing with Heavy Psych Sounds is a significant moment in the history of heavy music. It represents the band's ability to evolve while staying true to its roots, and it showcases the enduring appeal of their distinctive sound. The new album, due in 2027, is sure to be a compelling entry point for newer voyagers into the world of doom metal, and it will undoubtedly solidify The Obsessed's place as one of the most influential bands in the genre.