Godwatt – Vol III

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GODWATT is a Stoner Doom Metal band based out of Italy, and formed in 2005. The have had a steady release of albums since their formation. Their latest, “Vol. III,” is presented now, and has seven songs. “Signora Morte” is the first. Psychedelic lead guitars open the song, followed by a rough and steady riff, and snarly vocals. Things slow down a bit in the chorus, where a solemn melody develops amidst the leads. “Sepolta” is a slower grind, more in the line of what you think about from the genre. The harmonized leads in the mid-section are nice, along with the audible bass.

“Croce” is another slow grind, with some backing elements to thicken the riff a bit. It is sung in the band’s native language. Besides the obvious nod to BLACK SABBATH, the song doesn’t offer a whole lot else. “Delirio” fades in with church bells and a heavy, low riff. The leads are of course laden with heavy doses of the wah-wah pedal. “Oscura” is the long song on the album, at just under eight minutes. It’s another song sung in Italian. The music is harrowing and ominous but the rhythms could use thickening up a bit. “Non Tornerai” is a little quicker. At this point in the album, it’s obvious that this is all we are getting.

“Lamenti” closes the album; another underwhelming song. I get it, the band likes BLACK SABBATH, and who doesn’t? I have heard a lot of good Doom Rock/Metal, but this album failed to impress. Primarily, because the band just re-hashed SABBATH over and over and in every song, and they didn’t take any chances. Only a handful of riffs were used on the album, so how can you expect the songs not to bleed together? There aren’t even any promising moments to speak about. The band has to create their own identity.

Songwriting: 4
Musicianship: 5
Memorability: 3
Production: 7