#wizard eye

Wizard Eye Restore Majesty of The Riff

By Melissa Marie (Executive Editor, D&S Midwest)

Photo by Victoria Bowman

If you're looking to get buzzed with bass-driven, groovy-riffing psychedelic rock, look no further for your high than WIZARD EYE. Hailing from the Birthplace of America, Wizard Eye have been in the game for almost a decade, earning their chops with the underground favorite, 'Orbital Rites'(2010). In October, Dave (bass, vocals), Eric (guitar/vocals), and Mike (drums) returned with their long-awaited sophomore record: nine trippy tracks for us to get lost in. Wizard Eye revel in the 70's glory days, tossing us hints of their rock heroes Blue Cheer, Budgie, Hawkwind, Motörhead, and (of course) Black Sabbath. We also see more contemporary innovations at play, reminiscent of stoner riffers like Wo Fat, Lo Pan, and Karma to Burn.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

"Eye of the Deep" transports us right into the sky. The judicious use of reverb and other effects give "Eye of the Deep" a cosmic character, as Erik Caplan on guitar breaks out into mid-tempo stoner doom style riffing, coated with thick, fuzzy groove that's sure to please heavy music lovers. The rhythm section keeps things moving forward in a pulsating manner and Wizard Eye find themselves floating into deep space, making big, big vibrations. It's a perfect introduction to the record.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

A flawless transition takes us into a rather gloomy song with plenty of grim attitude: "Flying/Falling." Here, Dave's bass playing and Mike's drumming create a primal calling that echoes our first introduction to the vocals. Many, myself included, had expectations of mid-range melodic vocals; instead, Erik offers up weary grunts, much like you'd hear on a High On Fire record. While I initially didn't care for the approach, I've come to appreciate the vocals in their own right.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

"Phase Return" follows and is the ultimate party track, if you ever need one. There are plenty of heavy riffs matched with a hard rock edge that's a bit like Motörhead. Erik's vocals stand out a lot, as they truly do grow into their own force. Groovy, effects-driven guitars lead us to exciting percussion. Feedback and other sounds really add emphasis to the overall experience.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

While the beginning of the record so far has not deviated too much in terms of tempo, the following track "Graybeard" gives us some new elements to soak up. Without wandering too far from the plodding doom, Wizard Eye flirt with doom blues in the vein of Down and even Erik adjusts his vocals to fit the tune. Vicious drumming is the true highlight of this track, accompanied by ripping guitar solos.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

While the first half of this record is full of excitement, the second half seemed to lose some momentum for me. That said, there are still a number of must-hear songs. Check out the sixth track, "My Riposte is Like Lightning." Southern rock riffs are brought to bear, along with attitude, speed, and just the right amount of melodic sweetness.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

"Nullabor" is next and we are suddenly switched to a Middle Eastern theme over a rhythmic drumming mantra. Perhaps in an ode to Om, Wizard Eye reach out to therapeutic spiritually of cosmic sound. The bass wanders over psychedelic tendencies as the drums beat in soothing manner. "Nullabor" is certainly the most distinct track on the record, an absolute must hear.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

"Thunderbird Divine" is next, and Erik takes the spotlight with his coarse vocal delivery, while the instrumentation takes a back seat. Many will enjoy this track; however, if you don't like the vocals, chances are you'll be less into this one.

Wizard Eye by Wizard Eye

The album closes out with "Stoneburner." Wizard Eye are pedal to metal here, as they accelerate straight into the cosmos. This track is a return to the space rock brought by the opener, "Eye of the Deep." Full of psychedelic, stoner influenced guitar solos and plodding doom undertones roam free with trippy effects, and at over eight minutes, this is one of the longest songs on the record, giving you time to roll one up and smoke it before the ride is over.

Saint Vitus Bar in Brooklyn, Filmed by Frank Huang

If you're on the hunt for some infectious stoner rock, fuzzy psych, groovy riffs, and brawny vocals, you've found your needle drop for the next nine tracks. Wizard Eye keep their songs to a respectable time limit, which is more of a rarity these days. The average track length is between five and half to six minutes, ensuring the tracks don't overstay their welcome. If 'Orbital Rites' didn't get your attention, this one is sure to. 'Wizard Eye' is sure to strike a chord with the heavy underground, with enough heat to melt away those winter blues!

Get It.

American psychedelic metal band Wizard Eye have released the new song Stoneburner for streaming online.  The nine minute epic will be featured new self-titled Wizard Eye LP, slated for release via the Black Monk Records label on October 10th 2015. The new LP was recorded in three days at Haddon Heights, New Jersey’s Gradwell House Studios with Steve Poponi taking production…

Wizard Eye are now streaming their self-titled record in its entirety; listen below. The album is out now through Black Monk Records and can be purchased on limited edition swirled vinyl here and digital download here. [soundcloud url="https://api.soundcloud.com/playlists/152939897?secret_token=s-FH110"…

Psychedilc doom trio Wizard Eye have released a new single titled “Stoneburner”. Vocalist/guitarist Erik Caplan said of the song: “I don’t think anyone ever sets…