There�s a soulful bluesy-ness that runs right through the core of this album, giving it a very warm sound that only comes from awesome bands and you simply cannot fake that. One of the best things about Grand Magus is guitarist/vocalist JB (also of Spiritual Beggars fame). Not only is he in posession of one of rocks greatest singing voices since John Garcia, but the bastard also has the ourtight nerve to be a lead guitarist of such skill and dexterity as to make most other axemen look like a bunch of slouches in comparison. Refreshingly, his shit hot solos aren�t merely muso-jizz festivals, but impressive displays of musicianship that sound like the song would be naked without them, always full of soul and passion, and never too showy for the sake of it. If this doesn�t turn up in any �best of� lists in the new year, then it�s only because the list maker hasn�t heard it. Put simply, Monument is an outstanding album from a criminally underrated band.

Grand Magus has a sound that harkens back to the days of NWoBHM, while embracing the Doom/Stoner downtuned throb, but more song-focused and less improvisational than "jammier," Kyuss-influenced stoner stuff. Excellent vocals that set them apart from many bands in this groove. Very throaty and deep, but backed with great power. If this guy thinks he's not a singer, he's being too hard on himself. He rips!!

Majestic guitarwork somewhere near the great Zakk Wylde, combined with bombastic arrangements and the outstanding mighty, strong voice of JB (Spiritual Beggars). They show their love for seventies hard rock played with an immense drive. The doom touch is even more present with enough emotions and soul to fill five new albums. Sure some similarities to the godfathers Black Sabbath can be found here, but in this genre this is definitely no crime. So what needs this album to be perfect? A killer production. It has one. Doom freaks must have this one.

~Read reviews of this album?
~Post your own review?