stoner metal
subgenre of metal evolved from stoner rock
Stoner metal embodies a slow, sludgy heaviness that wraps around you like a thick fog. It's characterized by thick guitar riffs, often fuzzy and droning, paired with powerful, relentless rhythms that create an all-consuming sensation. Vocals can range from soaring melodies to deep, growling chants, frequently evoking a sense of otherworldliness. This genre draws on elements of psychedelia and the blues, delivering a sound that's as intoxicating as it is immersive, perfect for those late-night jams or introspective moments.
Emerging in the late '80s and finding its stride throughout the '90s, stoner metal grew out of the heavy rock traditions of bands like Black Sabbath and the experimental vibes of early doom metal. It was a reaction to the polished sheen of mainstream rock, embracing rawness and a DIY ethos. Pioneering acts such as Kyuss with their landmark album "Blues for the Red Sun" and Sleep’s monumental "Dopesmoker" helped carve out the genre's identity, drawing influences from psychedelic rock and desert landscapes. This created a soundscape that felt expansive yet grounded, resonating with fans seeking something deeper than simple entertainment.
If you’re new to stoner metal, starting with Kyuss’s "Welcome to Sky Valley" offers an exhilarating journey into their desert soundscapes. Then try Sleep's "Dopesmoker"—a hypnotic 63-minute track that feels like an epic trip through time and space. Don’t miss Fu Manchu’s "The Action Is Go," which delivers catchy riffs alongside heavy grooves. Lastly, High on Fire's "Blessed Black Wings" injects a dose of speed and ferocity into the mix. Once you’ve soaked these in, consider exploring related realms like sludge metal or psych rock for further sonic adventures.
50 artists in the catalog.
Guides for stoner metal artists
Top stoner metal albums
See essentials
All stoner metal artists
Soundgarden
alternative metal, alternative rock
Corrosion of Conformity
Southern metal, sludge metal
Conan
doom metal, sludge metal
Baroness
progressive metal, sludge metal
Spiritual Beggars
hard rock
Cancer Bats
Southern metal, hardcore punk
Orange Goblin
heavy metal
Electric Wizard
doom metal
Big Business
sludge metal
Fireball Ministry
Kylesa
sludge metal
Bongzilla
stoner rock
Torche
alternative rock, sludge metal
Sleep
doom metal
High on Fire
sludge metal
Down
Southern metal, sludge metal
About stoner metal
What is stoner metal?
subgenre of metal evolved from stoner rock
Where should I start with stoner metal?
Start with "Badmotorfinger" by Soundgarden. It captures what makes stoner metal worth exploring.
What are the best stoner metal albums?
The stoner metal albums worth hearing first: "Badmotorfinger" by Soundgarden, "Ultramega OK" by Soundgarden, "Down on the Upside" by Soundgarden, "Superunknown" by Soundgarden and "Louder Than Love" by Soundgarden.
How many stoner metal artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 50 stoner metal artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.