Writing tunes about space travel, doomed seafarers and a sentient android hellbent for a camel killing death crusade, Nashville’s HOWLING GIANT shared last August part one of their three part “Black Hole Space Wizard” concept record series. A year later, the nerd power trio returns with part two of the adventure set for release on August 25th. Playing self-indulgent, drop-tuned, fuzzed out riffs “Black Hole Space Wizard: Part 2” is again produced by the band, mixed by Kim Wheeler and mastered by Chris Frasco. The EP features six cosmic progressive travels of ‘The Pioneer’ continuing his quest for self-discovery and purpose on the husk planet, Earth.
“Hopefully for our returning fans, it is accepted with open arms and an open mind. As Part 2 of the 3 piece saga, this EP was meant to focus on the travels and trials of The Pioneer, protagonist, and last of mankind. The music reflects his growth and self discovery on a post-apocalyptic planet Earth. To new fans/fresh ears, wed like to invite them into the Black Hole Space Wizard universe through fat stomping riffs, spacey grooves, accessible vocal melody and juicy, pulpy sci-fi madness. We always try to refine our song writing and take one step into new territory with each release, pulling stylistically from whatever inspires us in the moment. Our recorded music is our best interpretation of the sounds we hear in our heads, and our goal is to make our sonic visions clearer with each release.” says drummer Zach Wheeler.
Album Title: Black Hole Space Wizard – Part 2
Release Date: August 25, 2017
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: The Orchard
Track Listing:
1. Henry Tate (4:54)
2. The Pioneer (4:49)
3. Visions (7:38)
4. The Forest Speaks (2:00)
5. Circle of Druids (4:57)
6. Earth Wizard (7:24)
EP Length: 31:45
About the album Track by Track explained by the band.
The meaning behind the EP is that we follow the travels of The Pioneer on his quest for self discovery and purpose on the husk planet, Earth.
1. Henry Tate paints a psychedelic scene built on the development of a groove and atmosphere. This opening track sets the scene for the rest of the album. The only vocals that are present are the introspective thoughts of The Pioneer picking up almost directly after the finish of Black Hole Space Wizard Part 1.
2. The Pioneer. This track features a delicious bass riff that grounds the listener before introducing a triumphant chorus and stomping riffs. On this track, you can find Tom heating up the room with some fiery pentatonic exploration.
3. Visions. This track is heavy, best described as a slab. It is a strange cocktail of darkness and triumph. This track focuses on the slow, the heavy, and the darker places of The Pioneer’s mind.
4. The Forest Speaks. Instrumental provides the listener with a break from the crushing full band arrangement. Featuring Acoustic Guitar, Baritone Sax, and floating synth, invites you to relax before the oncoming storm.
5. Circle of Druids. This song charges forward and breaks the listener out of the lethargic headspace of the previous track. With a focus on vocal harmony and a percussive instrumental approach, a soaring lead line closes out the track and leads you into the final chapter of Part 2.
6. Earth Wizard. Trudging and glorious, this song gives closure to Part 2. Buckle up for 7 minutes in heaven.
EP Credits:
All songs performed by: Howling Giant
All songs written by: Howling Giant
Produced by: Howling Giant
Mixed by: Kim Wheeler
Mastered by: Chris Frasco
Album Artwork by: Sue Davies
Member of SESAC
EP Band Line Up:
– Tom Polzine – Guitar/Vocals
– Roger Marks – Bass/Vocals
– Zach Wheeler – Drums/Vocals
– Drew Harakal – Guest Organ/Synths, recorded in Keyword in Ft. Worth, Texas
– Kim Wheeler – Baritone Saxophone
Live Band Line Up:
– Tom Polzine – Guitar/Vocals
– Roger Marks – Bass/Vocals
– Zach Wheeler – Drums/Vocals
Discography:
2017 – Black Hole Space Wizard – Part 2
2016 – Black Hole Space Wizard – Part 1 – Listen here | Music Video – Dirtmouth here
2015 – Howling Giant EP- Listen here
Shared Stage with:
Royal Thunder, King Buffalo, The Well, Valkyrie, Cave of Swimmers, Great Electric Quest, Black Pussy, Mothership, Order of the Owl, Freedom Hawk, Kyng, Sea Witch, Silent Monolith.
Tour and Festivals:
2017 – USA Tour
2017 – Tennessee Brew Works Block Party
2016/2015 – TN Sludge Fest 2015