Mordbear are a new band hailing from Portland, Oregon, delivering a compelling blend of Acid and Heavy Psych Rock, infused with references to early ’70s proto-Metal. Their self-titled debut EP was released on June 6, 2025 via Dipterid Records and features three tracks ranging from 4:30 to over 7 minutes in length. The opening track, “Like The Dead,” sets the tone with massive, rugged riffs and a granite-like rhythm section, carried by deep and dominant bass lines. The band immediately reveals its heavy roots, evoking the Acid-driven proto-Metal of the early ’70s while projecting it into a modern soundscape. The track unfolds at a slow, hypnotic pace, enveloping the listener in its lysergic atmosphere. A fiery, gritty guitar solo emerges in the middle section, heightening the tension. The balance between instrumental passages and vocal sections is well-calibrated, effectively showcasing the band’s sonic direction. Flowing naturally from the previous track, “A Mirror with a Sea of Flames” highlights the darker, more proto-Metal aspect of the band’s identity. The riffs become gloomier, the rhythm section more grounded and steady, with basslines that punch through the mix. The vocals enter after an evolving intro, bringing a dynamic and incisive energy that aligns well with the track’s proto-Doom character. Echoes of early ’70s acts like Pentagram or Sabbath permeate the song, blending Heavy, lysergic textures with a Heavy Rock backbone. Guitar lines and vocals intertwine, creating an evocative and immersive journey that culminates in an electrifying solo. The EP closes with “The Alchemist,” the longest piece on the release, clocking in at 7:09. Here, the band continues to explore dark sonic territories, merging Acid and Heavy elements in an extended instrumental intro filled with layered, well-crafted guitar work. The track dips into early Doom vibes, straddling the line between Acid Rock and vintage Heavy Rock. The vocal parts, enriched with effects, add an ethereal yet dynamic presence, enhancing the hazy atmospheres. The central theme evolves through a carefully constructed instrumental section featuring frequent tempo changes. The vocals return for the final verses, and the track concludes with a powerful interplay between voice and crushing instrumental moments. This debut EP successfully revives the spirit of Acid proto-Doom and early ’70s Heavy Psychedelia within a modern touch. The band weaves together hypnotic Acid passages and fuzz-drenched heaviness into a convincing and cohesive work. Mordbear is a promising debut that hints at a strong creative direction, leaving us eager for a full-length release. Highly recommended for fans of acid-tinged, lysergic heaviness rooted in the origins of proto-Metal and Doom.
Tracklist
01. Like the Dead (04:35)
02. A Mirror with a Sea of Flames (05:54)
03. The Alchemist (07:09)
Lineup
Tyler Balthaser / Guitars, Vocals
Nico Martinez / Bass
Erik Larson / Drums
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