LIGHTHAMMER
Galaxy (self-released)
The debut album from Cardiff’s intergalactic stoner rock three-piece Lighthammer is very much the sort of album the world needs right now. Gargantuan riffs that ooze positivity, driving basslines and thundering drums are topped off with vocals that ascend to the outer reaches of the galaxy themselves.
Galaxy is an album that celebrates the wonders of the cosmos and human achievement, putting it squarely in the concept album category. The first part of that journey sees us Entering The Atmosphere, showing us just what this band are all about with some strong guitar work from JT backed by a tight rhythm section. Shoulder Of Orion has a deep, almost reflective feel to it while Adventure Time is very much the band’s calling card and perhaps the most memorable track on an album stuffed with memorable moments. Navigating The Stratosphere is a surefire song for rock radio, but if the cosmos itself had a soundtrack, Esperanza may well be it.
Galaxy is a very well-thought-out musical journey and you just can’t help but feel a bit enlightened after listening to it. We live with a lot of negativity in 2020; Lighthammer are here to see us through it.
words CHRIS ANDREWS
