Album Review: Vaporizer EP, Stone Sea

With origins in a city south of Kerry known as São Paulo, Stone Sea have come along way since their inception in 2015. Their latest EP Vaporizer is an idiosyncratic triumph, through the marriage of their own blend of hard rock with bossa nova influenced rhythms. Joining the wave of heavy hitting new acts in Dublin, the band possess a individuality in their sound that is unique and exciting.

Vaporizer takes off with the catchy, radio friendly Peace at Ease, with its almost summertime grungy feel that can’t help but finish with rip-roaring guitar. Speaking with Hot Press previously, drummer Ross McDermott stated the song lyrically reflects someone who has just reached "a sense of peace with their good and bad experiences", with the follow up tracks conveying the various stages of introspection that tend to follow. Seeking Time is a moodier affair, with frontman Elvis Suhadolnik Bonesso’s hypnotic baritone vocals easing through transitions of crunching riffs. Swamp is another good example of this, with stoner grooves that feel well lived in and bursting with energy.

The most unique song of the bunch Who Knows? incorporates their Brazilian influence through a stellar bridge - led by flamenco guitar and McDermott’s snappy drumming. It’s an interesting transition that stands out without taking anything away from the song, but leaves you wanting to hear more of this fusion. Type O Negative’s influence is evident here also with dirge-like time changes and a Peter Steele-esque vocal delivery. In a rare feat, the lads have presented a polished collection of songs that each stand on their own. A great listen and a promising outlook for the power trio.

Rating: 8/10

Listen to Vaporizer here:

https://musicstonesea.bandcamp.com/album/vaporizer
https://open.spotify.com/album/4BofvMQNeA7V8OUaQKsHSD