SardoniS - SardoniS (Self Released)

Today's special is Stoner/Doom Metal served w/o vocals, courtesty of the 2 man wrecking crew known as SardoniS.  SardoniS self-titled debut album, released in 2010, received high praise from many critics in the Doom/Sludge Scene.  I'm not sure why the band capitalizes the final letter in their name, nor do I really care.  I do care that SardoniS play brutally heavy riffs at a blisteringly fast and hypnotically slow pace, all in equal measure.     

Fav Tracks:  'March of the Masses', 'Wolf's Lair', & 'More Severe Things Await'

My Rating: 9 / 10

Order of the Owl - In the Noon of the After Day (Self Released)

A runner up for my favorite 2012 'debut album' is, 'In the Noon of the After Day' by Order of the Owl. 

I first heard of these lads through one of my favorite DJ/blogger/metal-heads who goes by the moniker of 'The Wicked Lady'.  If you're into the Doom/Sludge/Stoner metal scene, do yourself a favor and check out her weekly podcast here. 

Anyways, some good ole fashioned dirty sludge metal coming by way of Order of the Owl. 

Fav track:  'In the Noon of the After Day'

My Rating:  7 / 10

Windhand - Windhand (Self Released)

Probably my favorite 'debut album' released in 2012 belongs to Windhand's self-titled full length.  If you're craving some seriously heavy and slow riffs to go along with clean vocals, look no further than this brilliant 5 piece.   Nod your head and obey the riff! 

Favorite Tracks:  'Summon the Moon' & 'Winter Sun'

My Rating:  9 / 10