Chattanooga sludge band, Dope Skum, is back with their sophomore EP, Gutter South, set to release on April 21.
Review for Dope Skum:
The five-track album showcases the band’s evolution, highlighting a shift in direction and sound. This release is bound to take their followers and fans of the sludge, grunge and stoner metal genres on a trip down south with its fuzz-laden, groove-oriented, heavy, yet dynamic songs.
Written with a new line-up featuring Cody Landress-Gibson (guitar/vocals) and Scott Keil (drums), Gutter South builds on Dope Skum’s solid foundation, staying true to their roots while offering a fresh perspective on their sound.
The EP’s first single, “Folk Magic,” was released in November, paying homage to Appalachian tradition and granny witches, folk healers known in the mountains to cure ailments with herbalism and home remedies.
The single received praise from several heavy music-oriented blogs, including Doomed & Stoned, Sleeping Village, and Outlaws of The Sun. The second single, “Belly Lint,” to be released on March 10, takes a different approach, tackling addiction and the resilience of the human spirit.
Gutter South is a testament to Dope Skum’s growth and versatility. With a unique blend of old-time influences, as seen in the interlude track, and heavy sludge, the EP marks a significant milestone in the band’s journey. While holding on to and acknowledging their roots in their debut EP Tanasi, Gutter South captures a fresh new spin on their sound and brand of sludge. Gutter South is the next chapter of Dope Skum.