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

Ice Dragon - The Sorrowful Sun (Self-Released)

The Sorrowful Sun, released in 2011, is Ice Dragon's 3rd full-length album.  These guys play doom metal reminiscent of Electric Wizard,  including the intentional low quality of recording.  Strangely, the low quality of production seems to fit perfectly with the band's overall sound.  If you fancy some good old fashioned doom/heavy metal then check out Ice Dragon! 
My fav tracks: 'Mistress Death', ' Interspecies Communication, 'Near Sun, on Earth'. 

Currently, all of the bands albums (including 3 full lengths released in 2012) are available for download and you can name your own price!

My Rating: 7.5 / 10