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Gozu VI

GOZU

Although this style of music isn’t my go-to, this is actually an excellent album. I once said that riff-driven Metal is a dying breed, but GOZU proves it is very much still alive. If you crave monstrous riffs along with some filth, this album is for you. We all feel like getting dirty sometimes, don’t we?
April 25, 2026

From Bandcamp, "This is GOZU's world, we're just living in it. Given that it has been five years since the Boston quartet dropped the monstrous "Equilibrium," returning with "Remedy" is one hell of a way to make sure that everyone — whether previously familiar with them or otherwise — realizes that they are perhaps the most badass of American rock bands, for they have taken everything to the next level." Now, they present their latest offering titled "Gozu VI," which contains eight songs. "Corinthian Leatherface" is first. It has a dirty, fuzzy riff and a distinct stoner feeling to it, landing somewhere between THE BLACK CROWS and FIREBALL MINISTRY, but the vocal harmonies and faster pace stand out to me. Much of the power, the fuel in the music comes from the riffs. "Midnight Express" has a slower riff with as much fuzz as a moldy donut left out for months. It has a depressive quality to it as if you have hit rock bottom and no longer give a fuck about anything.

"Killer Khan" has a heavy, sturdy riff complete with a side of fire and brimstone, and a groove as deep as a mountain chasm. "Corner Lariat" is a much gentler ride, with dreamy vocals and a pleasant sunrise on the beach. Even the heavier tones are tinged with positive thoughts and a side of hope. Call we call this the "power ballad" on the album? "Banacek" is a fast mover. The engine revs and they slam it into gear, burning tires on their way out. The riff is simple, but the groove and catchy chorus are memorable. This song will get you out of your chair and up on your feet. "They Did Know Karate" is even fuzzier, more sinister, and has a menacing bite. A slow-moving riff echoes with each step like a Giant lumbering across the plains, and it has a melancholy feeling, sort of like how you might feel after smoking some green. Just…mellow.

"Gimme the Lute" is longer, and faster, and once the diesel engine kicks over, it rolls forward with power. Every step on the gas, and every shifting of gears, sends a billow of black smoke into the sky. "If you're gonna burn that ride, someone's gotta pay your bills," he snarls. "Corvette Summer" is the final cut, and it's an energetic way to end the album, complete with vocal harmonies and powerful riffs. Although this style of music isn't my go-to, this is actually an excellent album. I once said that riff-driven Metal is a dying breed, but GOZU proves it is very much still alive. If you crave monstrous riffs along with some filth, this album is for you. We all feel like getting dirty sometimes, don't we?

8 / 10

Excellent

Songwriting

8

Musicianship

8

Memorability

7

Production

8
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"Gozu VI" Track-listing:

1. Corinthian Leatherface

2. Midnight Express

3. Killer Khan

4. Corner Lariat

5. Banacek

6. They Did Know Karate

7. Gimme the Lute

8. Corvette Summer

 

GOZU Lineup:

Unknown

 

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