J-Man Hailing from Louisiana, Raedon Kong is a unique musical duo that combines the intensity of sludge metal with the dreamlike atmospheres of psychedelia and the quirkiness of classic progressive rock. Though similarities to bands like Mastodon, Neurosis, and Isis can be heard throughout their self-titled EP, the band has carved their own niche with this 2013 release. Raedon Kong's strength lies in its ability to merge a reflective and melancholic atmosphere with some truly heavy riffs, and if that sounds like something for you, Raedon Kong will be right up your alley.

With a length of around thirty minutes, Raedon Kong is a pretty substantial EP, and when you consider that the band has generously offered it as a free download, there's little reason to not dedicate some time here. The musicianship is strong, the compositions contain a surprising level of detail (just listen to brilliant opening build in "Ash is the Omen" and you'll catch my drift), and repeat listens prove to be very rewarding. Even the somewhat underdeveloped production doesn't detract much from the overall experience, as its raw aesthetic fits Raedon Kong's musical direction quite well. For fans of metal that deviates from the norm - this is a band worth keeping an eye on!