gatekeeper The threesome of Wino, Dave Hennessy (drums) and Bruce Falkinburg (bass, vocals) have joined forces in order to create some of the most out there sonic manipulations this side of Jupiter on “Mother, Teacher, Destroyer”. It seems as if Wino just never stops creating, his latest project being a fusion of doom metal and spacey stoner rock that is mystical and mysterious.

The Hidden Hand begins the sonic deconstruction with “The Crossing”, a track that combines Bruce’s shamanistic vocalizations with board-burning leads and crashing rhythms that make for a potent blend. Wino assumes the microphone on “Half Mast”, conjuring up some smooth, otherworldly vibes which flow very well over the band’s laid back grooves. Desensitized finds Wino lashing out at the powers that be with a buzzed out vocal delivery that is enjoyable and unexpected. A blistering solo courtesy of Wino rages over the top of the vibes, sending electrically charged jolts through the listener’s ears.

‘Black Ribbon’ is a like a trip to the outermost regions of space, aurally. The band aims for feeling over exaggerated technique, emotion over slick production and overall, to create a tuneful trip for fans to catch a vibe from.

The Hidden Hand is successful in their quest as Mother, Teacher, Destroyer is a vibrant musical statement that hits like a comet as opposed to an asteroid, taking you to a place far away in a flash of light!