The stoner music genre has long been associated with laid-back rhythms, mind-expanding lyrics, and an unmistakable connection to the cannabis culture. Over the years, artists within this genre have developed unique ways of fusing heavy guitar riffs, hypnotic beats, and psychedelic elements to create an immersive listening experience that complements the relaxed, introspective mood often induced by cannabis consumption. As the world of stoner music continues to evolve, new artists and sounds are emerging, expanding the genre’s boundaries and ensuring its relevance in today’s music scene.

This blog post takes a deep dive into the evolution of stoner music, exploring its origins, the most influential artists who have shaped the genre, and the exciting new sounds and trends that are making waves in the scene today.

The Birth of Stoner Music

Stoner music’s roots trace back to the late 1960s and early 1970s when bands like Black Sabbath, Cream, and Led Zeppelin pioneered the heavy, riff-driven rock sound that would eventually morph into what we know as stoner rock or stoner metal. These early pioneers embraced a slow, doom-laden rhythm that made the music feel heavy, while their psychedelic influences were mirrored in the lyrical content, which often focused on themes of mysticism, altered states, and introspection — topics that resonated with those who sought to expand their minds through the use of substances like marijuana.

Black Sabbath’s iconic self-titled album (1970) is often considered a foundational piece in the development of stoner music. The album’s down-tuned guitars and heavy use of bluesy riffs laid the groundwork for the sound that would define stoner rock for generations. Similarly, the fuzzed-out guitar tones and surreal lyrics of bands like Hawkwind, Fu Manchu, and Sleep further cemented the genre’s identity.

The Stoner Rock Revival in the 90s and Early 2000s

While stoner music remained a niche genre in the years following its inception, the 1990s saw a resurgence in interest. Bands like Kyuss, Queens of the Stone Age, and Electric Wizard brought stoner rock to a new generation of listeners, attracting both diehard fans of classic rock and newcomers who were just beginning to explore the realms of psychedelic and heavy music.

Kyuss, in particular, was a key player in the 90s stoner rock revival. Their album Blues for the Red Sun (1992) remains one of the genre’s most influential records, blending the crushing heaviness of metal with the laid-back groove of southern rock. With songs like “Green Machine” and “Green Machine,” Kyuss gave birth to the signature stoner sound, characterized by its fuzzed-out guitars, pounding drums, and slow-burning riffs.

At the same time, Queens of the Stone Age, led by Josh Homme, pushed the boundaries of stoner music, incorporating elements of alternative rock and desert rock into their sound. Their self-titled debut album (1998) and follow-up, Rated R (2000), both showcased a more polished, yet still heavily riff-based sound that influenced many stoner bands in the years to come.

The Rise of Stoner Metal and Doom Metal

As stoner music gained popularity in the 2000s, another subgenre began to emerge: stoner metal. Drawing from the heavy, sludge-like sounds of doom metal, stoner metal bands like Electric Wizard, Sleep, and Bongzilla began to push the boundaries of heaviness and experimentation.

Electric Wizard’s album Dopethrone (2000) is widely regarded as a milestone in the stoner metal subgenre. Its dark, brooding atmosphere, paired with heavily distorted guitars and slowed-down riffs, created a powerful, almost oppressive sound that resonated with fans of both metal and stoner music. The album’s influence continues to be felt in stoner metal today, inspiring countless bands who are drawn to its doom-laden, hazy textures.

Sleep, another essential stoner metal band, made waves with their landmark album Jerusalem (1999), which was later reissued as Dopesmoker in 2003. This album is infamous for its single, hour-long track “Dopesmoker,” which takes listeners on a slow, crushing journey through heavy, psychedelic riffs. The album’s meditative pace and mantra-like repetition make it a hallmark of stoner metal, and it remains one of the genre’s most iconic records.

The Current State of Stoner Music: New Wave of Psychedelic Sound

As stoner music continues to evolve, new artists are finding ways to blend traditional stoner rock elements with modern influences, giving rise to fresh, exciting sounds. The genre’s versatility has allowed for experimentation with everything from electronic beats to post-punk and shoegaze influences. As a result, there is now a broader range of sounds and styles within the stoner music scene, ensuring that the genre remains vibrant and ever-evolving.

The Revival of Psychedelia

One of the most exciting developments in modern stoner music is the resurgence of psychedelic rock elements. Bands like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Earthless have embraced the mind-expanding sounds of the 1960s and 1970s while adding their own unique twists to the genre. King Gizzard, for example, has explored everything from jazz to microtonal music, while Earthless focuses on instrumental jams and extended psychedelic improvisations.

King Gizzard’s album Nonagon Infinity (2016) is a prime example of how the psychedelic and stoner genres can merge to create something truly unique. The album’s seamless, looping structure and relentless energy make it a standout in the modern stoner scene. King Gizzard’s willingness to experiment with different sounds and formats has earned them a dedicated following in both the stoner rock and psychedelic communities.

Meanwhile, Earthless continues to dominate the instrumental side of the genre, with their expansive, improvisational jams drawing comparisons to the great psychedelic pioneers. Their live shows, which often feature lengthy solos and spontaneous musical explorations, have become a hallmark of the modern stoner scene.

The Rise of Stoner Doom and Sludge Metal

Another exciting development in stoner music is the growing prominence of doom and sludge metal bands, which have added new textures and complexity to the genre. Bands like Conan, Monolord, and YOB are pushing the boundaries of stoner music by combining crushing doom metal riffs with stoner rock’s laid-back atmosphere, creating an intense yet meditative sound.

Conan’s album Revengeance (2016) is a perfect example of the genre’s evolution. The band’s signature blend of slow, pulverizing riffs and soaring, melodic moments makes them one of the most important bands in modern stoner doom. Similarly, Monolord’s Rust (2014) combines heavy, fuzzy riffs with hypnotic rhythms, creating a sound that is both punishing and trance-inducing.

YOB, known for their atmospheric and spiritual take on doom metal, has also found their place within the stoner scene. Their album Clearing the Path to Ascend (2014) blends slow, crushing riffs with ethereal soundscapes, creating a sound that is both meditative and overwhelmingly heavy.

New Artists: Expanding the Stoner Sound

As the genre continues to grow, newer bands are emerging with their own unique takes on stoner music, further expanding the sound and appeal of the genre.

Bands to Watch

• Mondo Drag: This California-based band blends elements of stoner rock, psychedelic rock, and blues into a sound that is both retro and forward-thinking. Their album New Rites (2020) showcases their ability to create hypnotic, groovy tracks with a modern twist.
• Fu Manchu: While not new, Fu Manchu continues to release fresh, high-quality stoner rock music. Their album King of the Road (2020) brings their signature blend of fuzzy guitars and catchy, stoner-fueled grooves to the forefront.
• Karma to Burn: This instrumental stoner rock band has continued to impress with their tight, heavy riffs and infectious grooves. Their music, while instrumental, has the ability to evoke the same laid-back, heady vibes as any traditional stoner band.
• The Cosmic Dead: With their experimental, psychedelic approach to stoner music, The Cosmic Dead has gained a reputation for pushing the boundaries of sound. Their music combines elements of krautrock, space rock, and stoner, creating a unique listening experience.

Conclusion: The Future of Stoner Music

The world of stoner music has come a long way since its inception, evolving from the heavy riffs of Black Sabbath to the experimental, boundary-pushing sounds of modern-day artists. Whether it’s through the resurgence of psychedelia, the rise of doom and sludge metal, or the incorporation of new, electronic influences, stoner music continues to evolve and thrive in today’s music scene.

With new artists constantly emerging and established bands continuing to innovate, the future of stoner music looks bright. As long as the genre continues to embrace its roots while allowing for experimentation and growth, stoner music will remain an essential part of the musical landscape, providing a soundtrack for those looking to expand their minds and connect with the deeper mysteries of life.