Founded in Kyiv in 2009, Stoned Jesus are considered one of the most influential Heavy Rock and Stoner bands in Europe. Singer and guitarist Igor Sydorenko initially wanted to pursue a solo project called Krobak, from which the trio then developed. In 2026, Stoned Jesus were guests at the Freak Valley Festival, where Rockpalast recorded their concert and, among others, their song “I’m The Mountain.”
Watch the live performance video for Stoned Jesus‘ masterpiece “I’m The Mountain” at Freak Valley Festival 2026 via the YouTube player below:
You can find the whole concert HERE
Together with his two bandmates, band founder and mastermind Sydorenko combines influences from Sludge, Doom, and Stoner Rock with Stoned Jesus. The debut album “First Communion” was released in 2010. The international breakthrough came with the second album “Seven Thunders Roar.” The 13-minute song “I’m the Mountain” from that album has now reached over 16 million views on YouTube (as of March 2026).
While the first albums were rather rooted in Doom Metal, elements of Progressive Rock and grunge were added to the band’s sound on later albums such as “The Harvest” (2015) and “Pilgrims” (2018). In 2016, the band played at Hellfest, and in 2017, Stoned Jesus became the first Ukrainian Rock band to tour South America.
Due to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, Sydorenko has relocated the band’s base to Germany.
Thumbnail photos: WDR/Thomas von der Heiden.
Stoned Jesus are working on upcoming new album “Songs To Moon” read more here: [News] Stoned Jesus announce new album “Songs To Moon” and unveil first single & official video “Velvet”