Doomed Confessionary: Joseph, Sam, James & Robert (Ghozer)
Ghozer is a 4-piece stoner/doom metal band hailing from Birmingham, UK.
From slow and brooding to groove driven hooks, psych interludes and dark lyrical themes – their first full-length album »Black Lotus« takes you on an hypnotic, head rocking journey that wants to leave a hole in your soul. Their new EP »Forest Of Bones« was released on June 8th, 2024 and available now on all major streaming platforms.
Ghozer are Joseph Keys (guitars, vocals), Sam Ellis (guitars), Robert Bennett (bass, vocals) and James Holdcroft (drums).
Can you say a few words about your band?
We often say we do “full-spectrum” stoner/doom. Sometimes we bring in our grunge and alt metal roots, too.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Apart from being in the same room as each other? Probably just getting a footing for good gigs and navigating how to go about music in a serious way – giving it the promotion that our efforts deserve.
What can you be most proud of so far?
We’re incredibly pleased with our latest EP but in particular the music video to »Forest Of Bones«. Special thanks to Jake Kindred Film for pulling that together for us. We hope you agree that it’s epic!
What was your biggest regret?
Not making a music video sooner. The traction you can achieve in today’s scene is so much more with a good video.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
We were proud to be a part of Birmingham’s “Home of Metal” celebrations. Being from the Midlands where Black Sabbath formed to foundation of our stoner/doom sound it was important to be a part of recognising that.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
Getting some “fuel” money or even some tickets share. We honestly thought we were doing this for free!
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Sunnata, Pantera, Melvins.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Listen!
What are your guilty pleasures?
eFukt.com
Can you say something more about the music scene in Birmingham / Midlands?
Birmingham and the wider Midlands in the UK is the home of Metal. Black Sabbath, Judus Priest, Napalm Death, Godflesh – influential and genre defining bands. But despite efforts to recognise this (such as the “Home Of…” Festival) it’s unfortunately thin on the ground for a real scene. It’s very hard for venues to stay open and a lot of touring bands miss us off their list. We want that to change and we want to be a part of it.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Birmingham!!!
What are your plans for the future as a band?
We’re straight back to writing and looking ahead to another release, maybe next year.
How can people best support your band?
Come to a gig and grab a t-shirt!
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Don’t go into the woods at night.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well