Saint Vitus

Along with 1992's C.O.D., 1995's Die Healing is the second re-released effort from iconic doom elders Saint Vitus. Die Healing is the record that preceded last year's Lillie: F-65, the first new offering from the doom masters in 17 years — a momentous release, as it saw the return of original vocalist Scott Reagers. Die Healing is also their last record with original drummer Armando Acosta, who passed away in 2010. However, it's the guitar sound on the album that makes it a classic, not only in the band's catalogue, but in the doom genre as a whole. Thick, heavy grooves and murky tones are at the forefront throughout. "Dark World" and "Trail of Pestilence" contain particularly gritty, crippling riffs, with the latter featuring mind-blowing, feedback-laden solos. However, it's "Let the End Begin" that showcases some of the finest work of guitarist Dave Chandler's career. Die Healing is one of the best releases from Saint Vitus to date and is a must-have for doom aficionados.