I really liked Megaton Communion's debut last year, a stripped-down approach to desert rock that could be as heavy or ethereal as it wanted, based on the moment. It was one of the most hypnotic albums of 2025 (or perhaps late 2024).

Megaton Communion Three of Cups (Black Doomba Records)

The band keeps all of that and adds a rougher production along side a big pile of Louder than Love-era grunge. The edgier sound gives the reverb that much more shimmy, and the emphasis on, well, loudness amplifies the power. Yes, it takes away (er, removes) from the spare feel of that first album, but I have a feeling this is simply a better reproduction of how these boys play live.

All that heaviness is leavened by the hypnotic rhythm section, an almost drone-like attack that keeps these songs bubbling along. Despite the increased mid-range guitar, these songs remain as nimble as ever. The kinetic imperative hasn't been diminished in the slightest.

Fans of the first album will certainly be taken aback by how heavy some of these songs are. I was surprised, but it didn't take long for me to adjust. The band hasn't changed as much as the production has. Do I prefer this or the first album? I dunno. It might even come down to a song-by-song question. Play "Desert Centipede". If that doesn't work for you, I'm sorry. As for me, this sucker rips.

Jon Worley