Lady Owl - Acid Viking

Genre: Psychedelic
Subgenre: Doom Rock

Lady Owl is the psychedelic doom rock project of multi instrumentalist Johnny Alistair. In the recording studio, Alistair writes, records, performs, and produces all the project’s music with a revolving cast of session musicians.  - Doomed-Nation.com

Lady Owl's third album, Acid Viking, was recorded in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, is a musical journey that effortlessly melds a wide range of influences into a sound uniquely their own.

The album's opener, Hits Hard, grabs your attention with groovy basslines and contagious guitar hooks, living up to its name by making a powerful impact from the get-go. With vocals that conjure Scott Weiland's sultriness and the edgy allure of Josh Homme, this song sets the stage for an album that's as diverse as it is captivating. Lady Owl is able to transition seamlessly from this high-energy opener into various moods and sonic landscapes for the duration of the album.

Lithium channels the raw emotion and grunge spirit reminiscent of Kurt Cobain, blending vulnerability with unapologetic energy. The haunting melodies and gritty vocals draw you into the depths of Lady Owl's creative vision. Percolate is the drum hero of the album, with a guitar hook that summons John Frusciante.

Acid Viking offers an intriguing change of pace with Cool Jam, a track that transports you back to the 70s, evoking the mood and spirit of The Doors. It's a testament to Lady Owl's versatility and ability to explore different eras of rock, showcasing his musical prowess.

The title track, Acid Viking, Chilly, and Viiper bring forth echoes of The Killers and Queens of the Stone Age. Lady Owl demonstrates his knack for crafting anthems that still retain an experimental edge. These tracks are proof that the artist doesn't shy away from embracing modern rock sensibilities while paying homage to his influences.

What makes Acid Viking a standout album is its thoughtful sequencing and diversity. Lady Owl takes you on a sonic rollercoaster, expertly transitioning between various tempos and moods, making it a compelling listen from start to finish. The unmistakable rock of “Chilly” and movable jam of “Black James Bond" is a testament to his commitment to crafting a multi-faceted album that never settles into one sound.

Acid Viking is proof of Lady Owl's musical evolution and willingness to experiment and explore new territory while still paying homage to the rock giants who came before. The album's ability to effortlessly traverse through different rock sub-genres and eras sets it apart from the crowd. It's an exciting offering for both old and new fans, a showcase to the artist’s growth, and a sign that Lady Owl is poised to make a significant mark in the world of rock music. Acid Viking is a captivating, unpredictable, and well-put-together journey that will keep you coming back for more.