88 MILE TRIP, from Vancouver, have recently released their 9 track album "Through the Thickest Haze" and it is a great listen for anyone into the more lively end of the stoner spectrum.

The mix of dragging grooves, prominent bass and hanging riffs is by no means unique, but it is very well executed.  88 MILE TRIP are open about their influences, which include KYUSS and BLACK SABBATH and these are reflected heavily in their music.  Vocally, Dave is a grunty, gravelly frontman, giving the songs a powerful direction.  Combined with blues inspired music, these songs are both a hat tip to the past and a fearless charge towards the future.

The alternating pace between the understated and morose feel of "Song of the Dead" and the manic and upbeat tunes like "20 and 8" keeps this album holding interest.  This variation is apparently in single songs also.  There is plenty of space in this album for instrumental exploration, and their track "Burn the Saints" is a perfect example of this, sharing the talents of the drummer, Eddie, and the string section.  "Through the Thickest Haze" is a rhythmic adventure, planted firmly in groove and feel rather than tricky time signatures.

In fitting with the genre, this album can feel a little wet and soggy for short periods, but it never sticks around long enough to become an issue.  With such a distinctive vocal style, there is an element that can be a bit repetitive at times and I would have liked to hear a little more variety in that regard.

The guitar and bass tones on this album are glorious, and this is especially apparent in "Serpent Queen".  It is well produced and it's quite apparent a lot of care has gone in to "Through the Thickest Haze".

In short, if you are a fan of this genre, keep an eye on these guys.  They work really well together and that's always a sign of a band that will bound from strength to strength.