With the release of “One Way Trip“, Worshipper cements their status in the world of psychedelic hard rock. It’s been a journey since their debut album “Shadow Hymns” in 2016, followed by “Light in the Wire” in 2019. Over these years, the band has honed their sound, embracing their heavy, melodic, and uniquely psychedelic roots. John Brookhouse, Dave Jarvis, Alejandro Necochea, and Bob Maloney showcase their musical maturity and evolution with this latest offering, pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories.
The album kicks off with “Heroic Dose“, an ambitious track that immediately sets the tone. A wailing siren leads into heavy, downtuned riffs. Worshipper has been a name synonymous with the psychedelic hard rock scene since their formation in 2014. Over the years, they have carved out a niche for themselves, with John Brookhouse on vocals and guitar, Dave Jarvis on drums, Bob Maloney on bass and backing vocals, and Alejandro Necochea on guitar and synth. Their debut in 2016 with “Shadow Hymns” was well-received, followed by the critically acclaimed “Light in the Wire” in 2019. Now, after a three-year hiatus, they return with their ambitious third studio album, “One Way Trip”.
The album opens with “Heroic Dose,” setting a dark, haunting tone with a wailing siren before launching into a deep, resonant riff. The track explores heavy themes inspired by a father’s choice during the Vietnam War, reflecting the album’s overarching theme of wrestling with complex human conditions. It’s a raw and immersive kick-off that promises much for what’s to come.
“Keep This” is up next, and it offers a lighter, more melodic counterpoint to the opener. Channeling influences from Thin Lizzy, the track glides effortlessly with a catchy groove that showcases the band’s versatility. Worshipper masterfully blends catchy hooks and rhapsodic melodies, making this an instant standout.
“Windowpane” then drifts back into more traditional psychedelic territory, with slower, doom-laden riffs and an enveloping atmosphere. The creeping melodies and ethereal guitar work by Alejandro Necochea create a trance-like state that perfectly encapsulates the album’s title.
The tempo rises again with “Acid Burns,” which is an energetic explosion of sound that proves the band’s capability to switch gears seamlessly. Bob Maloney’s basslines here are particularly noteworthy, driving the song with a relentless pulse that keeps the energy high and listeners engaged.
“James Motel” follows, continuing the brisk pace with pounding beats and explosive riffs. This track further extends the album’s appeal, blending elements of classic rock with modern psychedelic influences. You can feel the synergy and unity among the band members, signaling a well-honed craft.
The penultimate track, “Onwards,” is an emotional powerhouse, closing the album on a nuanced, melancholic note. More somber than its predecessors, it delves into themes of loss and reflection, wrapping up the psychedelic journey with intensity and grace. Dave Jarvis’s drumming here is particularly poignant, providing a steady heartbeat to the song’s reflective melodies.
Lyrically and musically, “One Way Trip” strikes a fine balance between classic hard rock and old-school heavy metal, all while infusing elements of psychedelia. The album is a cohesive piece of art, inspired by the psychological thriller “Jacob’s Ladder,” which lends a circular narrative structure to the order of the tracks.
One cannot overlook the impressive songwriting skills of John Brookhouse and the impeccable production quality of the entire album. Worshipper has managed to grow and evolve while staying true to the elements that garnered them initial fame. Their ability to channel raw emotion into richly layered tracks speaks volumes about their artistic maturity.
However, one minor critique could be the occasional predictability within song structures that might feel overly familiar to devoted fans. A touch more innovation could push the boundaries of their established sound further, but this is a minor quibble in an otherwise stellar album.
All things considered, “One Way Trip” is a triumph for Worshipper. It delivers an evocative journey through the intricate landscapes of human emotion and psych rock extravaganza. Each song holds its own, contributing to a well-rounded, memorable album that leaves a lasting impression.
Brett’s Rating: 8/10
Order your copy at: http://lnk.spkr.media/worshipper-onewaytrip
Tracklist:
1. Heroic Dose
2. Keep This
3. Windowpane
4. Only Alive
5. Acid Burns
6. James Motel
7. The Spell
8. Onward
Line-up:
John Brookhouse – vocals, guitar, synth
Dave Jarvis – drums
Bob Maloney – bass, backing vocals
Alejandro Necochea – guitar, synth
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