Doomed Confessionary: Garret Garlington (Cosmic Reaper)
Photos by Caleb Stanfield
Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, psych-doom outfit Cosmic Reaper delivers classic doom and stoner metal elements dipped in psychedelia.
Cosmic Reaper’s discography includes »Demon Dance« EP (2019), »Comes Knockin’« single (2020), full-length »Cosmic Reaper« (Heavy Psych Sounds, 2021) and a split with Endtime »Doom Sessions Vol. 7« (Heavy Psych Sounds, 2023).
Can you say a few words about your band?
We are just 4 normal guys who love heavy music, rock n roll and playing what we want to play.
What was the biggest challenge for the band this year?
Our lead guitarist since the begining, Dillon had to step away from the band for his health, his replacement and our good friend Zach joined the band. About 5 weeks after joining he sadly passed away. So for about half the year we had to figure out who would fill that position. We played as a 3 piece for a few shows and then eventually came in contact with Peter, who recently moved to the states from the UK. It was a good fit and hopefully he’s here to stay.
What can you be most proud of this year?
We got to play fests for our label (Heavy Psych Sounds) in both California and NY. Our first time playing both places.
What was your biggest regret?
Flying on Frontier airlines. They suck!
What was the best concert/tour this year and why?
We had a show in our hometown (Charlotte, NC) supporting the one and only Bongzilla. Overall great energy from the crowd and other bands.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The scene overall seems to be thriving, lots of great bands of all different styles are really taking it to the next level. In today’s scene there’s not as many amateurs, Everyone is bringing their A Game.
Where can we see you live next year (concerts/tours)?
We go where people want to see us, who knows what 2024 holds but I’m sure we will be on the road somewhere on the East Coast US, maybe Europe.
What are your plans for the next year as a band? What do you personally want the most?
First priority is finishing Album #2. With guitar duties filled, we are already about halfway down with one. Hopefully it will contain a lot of new elements we haven’t experimented with in the past. It will be heavy, I know that for sure.
Do you already know what are you doing on New Year’s Eve?
I don’t think most of us are NYE people, haha. I’m sure there will be alcohol involved somewhere in some capacity.
How can people best support your band?
There’s nothing more important than word of mouth. If you dig what we do, tell a friend, tell a promoter, and spread the word.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
To quote Church Of Misery… “Death to false stoner, let there be Doom!!!”
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well