Listen to and worship him, the Toad King

What started out as a single man on a mission turned into a duo set out to make a name for themselves in the world of black metal with an air of doom. The debut EP is a three-track set that creates a story of epic proportions and will leave people in a state of needing more from Goblinsmoker.

“Toad King,” the first and titular song on the EP, introduces the world to Goblinsmoker with heavy riffs that build up the anticipation of throaty, gravely vocals that sing of the tale of the Toad King. From their Facebook page, it seems as if the Toad King is a figure to be worshipped. In the about me section it says, “cast out, ruling the forest, smoking his willing goblin subjects. Toad King, worship him.” At the core of this EP, it’s a plot-driven tale cooked up from the pits of hell that creates a hazy atmosphere.   

From the very first eerie note, listeners will be transported into a realm filled with dread that is present throughout the three tracks. Each track creates its own foreboding mood, but they contribute together to make the overall feel of the EP. It’s as if each track adds weight onto the listener’s shoulders, creating goosebumps and a feeling as if they have to check their surroundings.  

Honestly, the combination of the legend of the Toad King and the refreshingly unique sound separates Goblinsmoker from other up and coming bands. In a world that has been lacking originality, this UK duo is creating something to look forward to and dissect. It begs the question, what will they do next? What other stories will and can they create in an EP or maybe a full-length album?  

Overall, it feels as if the music is luring people into a cave to be blasted by the bone-chilling vocals. Goblinsmoker certainly knows how to make an entrance and create ingenuity with their debut EP Toad King.

Who’s ready to become a goblin subject and sacrifice themselves to the Toad King?