If Clouds Taste Satanic are the high priests of hipster conceptual psychedelic stoner rock, this debut from King Bastard (also from the NYC area) firmly cements them as temple reformers. The dynamic range, ability to tell stories without lyrics and general commitment to the form are impressive.

King Bastard It Came from the Void (self-released)

King Bastard is a lot more into early Sabbath, incorporating plenty of psychedelic blues riffs into its heavy drones. And yes, these songs do go on. At times a saxophone takes the lead. Said saxophonist also proves to be a competent black metal vocalist. Past that, there are frequent "What did I just hear?" moments. And, just when all seems lost, bone-crushing riffage.

The sonic palette and dynamic range creates the dramatic feel of these songs. "Psychosis (in a Vacuum) was released as a single more than a year ago, and its broad use of metal and stoner rock sounds (all in service of an eight-minute song) is the template for this album. If that song doesn't melt your mind, then schedule a CAT scan, stat!

This sucker just keeps going. Pain is real, and suffering is unavoidable. No amount of preparation can ready you for the onslaught. Prepare to be throttled, and then wither from the shock of something even more eviscerating. Or something like that, anyway. This sucker smokes.

Jon Worley