Electric Wizard

Electric Wizard is an English doom metal band known for their heavy, sludgy sound, occult themes, and distinctive aesthetic. Here are some facts about the group:

1. Formation and Early Years: Electric Wizard was formed in 1993 in Dorset, England, by guitarist and vocalist Jus Oborn, bassist Tim Bagshaw, and drummer Mark Greening. The band's sound was heavily influenced by the classic doom metal bands of the 1970s, as well as by psychedelic rock, stoner rock, and horror films. From their earliest recordings, Electric Wizard distinguished themselves with their slow, heavy riffs, murky production, and dark, occult-inspired lyrics.

2. Career Milestones: Electric Wizard gained attention in the underground metal scene with the release of their debut album, "Electric Wizard" (1994), and its follow-up, "Come My Fanatics..". (1997). These albums established the band's signature sound and earned them a dedicated following among fans of doom metal and stoner rock. Electric Wizard further solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands in the genre with albums like "Dopethrone" (2000) and "Witchcult Today" (2007), which received widespread critical acclaim for their crushing heaviness and atmospheric intensity.

3. Lineup Changes and Evolution: Over the years, Electric Wizard underwent several lineup changes, with Jus Oborn remaining the sole constant member and creative force behind the band. Despite these changes, the band's sound remained consistent, characterized by its slow, downtuned guitar riffs, droning bass lines, and hypnotic rhythms. Electric Wizard's music often explores themes of occultism, drug use, and existential dread, creating an immersive and unsettling listening experience for fans.

4. Influence and Legacy: Electric Wizard's impact on the doom metal genre is undeniable, with their dark, heavy sound influencing countless bands and artists in the metal underground. Their music has been praised for its uncompromising heaviness, immersive atmosphere, and unapologetic embrace of darkness and nihilism. Electric Wizard's albums are considered classics of the doom metal genre, with "Dopethrone" in particular often cited as one of the greatest metal albums of all time. The band's legacy continues to loom large in the world of heavy music, with their influence felt across a wide spectrum of metal subgenres.

5. Controversy and Notoriety: Electric Wizard has courted controversy throughout their career with their provocative imagery, lyrics, and album artwork. The band's fascination with occultism, drug culture, and horror films has led to accusations of promoting antisocial behavior and glorifying violence and drug use. Despite these controversies, Electric Wizard has maintained a dedicated fanbase and remained a fixture in the metal underground, continuing to push the boundaries of heaviness and darkness in their music.