Høstsabbat 2023: Lowrider Added; Elephant Tree & Shaman Elephant Cancel
Over the weekend, UK melodic heavy prog rockers Elephant Tree put out word that guitarist/vocalist Jack Townley was having medical complications after a severe accident earlier this year and that as a result they’d be canceling all upcoming live activity for now. That’s a bummer of a reason not to play a show, a festival, anything, but of course, one wishes Townley continued success in his recovery. As to what happened to Shaman Elephant, I’m not sure, but fair enough.
Lowrider will take that lineup spot. You might recall the Swedish four-piece got you through the pandemic with 2020’s Refractions (review here) album, their first long-player in 20 years and a celebration worthy of that time. Again, it’s not a trade you want to be making in the first place, especially under the circumstances with Elephant Tree, but if you’re getting Lowrider out, at least you know things will be okay. And there’s always 2024 for Elephant Tree. And me.
One endeavors to keep these things in perspective:
HØSTSABBAT 2023 – Lowrider
Yes, there is absolutely NO reason to weep because of last night’s cancellations. Just look to the east, and what do you see? Sweden.
Can you believe we only have one Swedish band on the lineup so far?
Far too few for an anniversary addition of Høstsabbat!
Lowrider is most likely familiar to most of you, as they have been a quintessential force in the European stoner scene for what feels like ages, and rightfully so.
Bursting into the scene with a split with Nebula back in 1999 already, these guys have never looked back. They are a classic example of what continuous grinding will do to a band. They never lean on previous endeavours, but continue to expand their sonic palette with every release, and it has been a true joy to follow them over the years. Their visit to church feels way overdue.
Lowrider never disappoint, and is a live beast well worthy of the recognition they have gained. Airy compositions combined with progressive structures, killer riffs, and of course an always present monster groove makes them one of the bands not to be missed this year. And the vocals also need to be mentioned. They have an ethereal quality, almost like a velvet roof in a Mustang.
As you know, our love for all those Swedish bands has been a pivotal part of making Høstsabbat what it is today. It feels both right and great to keep that tradition alive moving forward.
We are humbled and stoked to welcome Lowrider to our Church of Riffs!
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