Doomed Confessionary: Josh Drinnen (Sun Mantra)
Sun Mantra is a three-piece psychedelic doom metal band hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee.
Formed in the summer of 2023 by drummer Leo Dyer (ex-Summoners Circle, Mountain King) and guitarist Josh Drinnen, the band found their full voice when Harrison Hammett joined on bass and vocals. Together, the trio became a sonic force of nature – delivering thunderous riffs, pounding drums, and vocals that cut like a ritual blade. Their sound is equal parts raw, hypnotic, and transcendental. The band channels the spirits of EyeHateGod, Sleep, and Black Sabbath, while carving out their own thunderous path.
Sun Mantra released a crushing blow to the senses with their new double single release, »Fertilizer / Wrath«, out on April 4th, 2025. The latest offering builds on the momentum of their acclaimed debut single »Cosmic Law« and cements their place in the modern doom scene with a fierce blend of heavy psychedelia and soul-wrecking doom riffs.
Can you please say a few words about your band?
We’re a doom/psychedelic band from Knoxville, TN
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Funds for sure. Trying to balance the funds to support getting merch and also traveling to out of sate gigs.
What can you be most proud of so far?
I think we are all proud to have played the last Maryland DoomFest.
What was your biggest regret?
Not putting out enough music.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Best concert I think was when we played in Johnson City, TN at the Hideaway. The vibe that night was just so electric.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
Personally, from what I’ve seen, the lack of genuineness people can be.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Conan, Drain, Acid Bath, REZN. Monolord etc.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
“Don’t think shit.” The moment you start overthinking something, the more you’re shooting yourself in the foot.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Watching 80’s movies, old country music, guns, computers, the list goes on and I ain’t feeling guilty.
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Knoxville?
The Knox scene is something special. It’s all tight knit and very welcoming to anyone who stumbles upon it.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
We have a few shows coming up. We’re playing the Pilot Light in Knoxville at the end of July, Bristol, VA on August 2th with Wyndrider and Obsidian Urn, and TN Metal Devastation Fest in October in Jackson, TN
What are your plans for the future as a band?
We’re working towards dropping a record with all new material.
How can people best support your band?
BUY MERCH! and check us out on all listening platforms and social platforms.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Thanks for rocking with us and supporting us. Each one of us is so grateful for it.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well