The Swedish scene has always been in the foreground when it comes to creating excellent epic doom metal. Just take a look at bands such as NEMESIS, CANDLEMASS, or a bunch of others to know what I am talking about. STONEGRIFF, though formed just 6 years ago, has, since their first demo “Epicus Democus” (sounds a bit like “Epicus Doom Metalicus”), been definitely following the path shaped by the genre`s forefathers and been influenced by these as well. With every release, this band has marked their presence with a more and more mature approach to their music. The music of theirs has been getting constantly crystallized, the phenomenon clearly hearable on their 2013 album “Prologus Magicus”. It contains very stylistically mature music in the atmosphere of the 70s. The new album of these Swedes, “Come Taste the Blood”, decorated with a massive and crushing heaviness is just strikingly powerful. There are plenty of influences from old and good doom metal school such as BLACK SABBATH, CANDLEMASS, WITCHFINDER GENERAL or TROUBLE. Nevertheless, STONEGRIFF don’t cut themselves from the roots, yet they still are able to create their original style which makes their songs quite fresh. The new and old atmosphere has been decorated with a very distinct sound. Jacob`s strong vocals narrate, very well, the rest of the musical portrait and work with each other awesomely. This stuff flows powerfully, it is really nice to listen to this material. The massive production is noticeable, well, it was Andy LaRoque himself who took care of it. STONEGRIFF, amongst a bunch of newly-formed doom metal bands, seems to be a good band. Jowita Kaminska was responsible for the cover and matches the musical rest real well. I can only say I do recommend this album. LWS.