Goatsnake
A stoner-metal super group that first came together during the late '90, Goatsnake rose out of the ashes of legendary doom outfit the Obsessed when that band's rhythm section (bassist Guy Pinhas and drummer Greg Rogers) started playing with guitarist Greg Rogers, who at the time was best known for playing with indie-punk crew Engine Kid and short-lived death metal band Thorr's Hammer.
The trio soon recruited noted singer Pete Stahl, who fronted DC punk heroes Scream before leading '90s rockers Wool with his guitar-playing brother Franz Stahl. While nodding heavily to the Black Sabbath template being followed by so many '90s doom bands, Goatsnake had the advantage of Stahl's powerful, emotive delivery, the rhythm section's relentless swing and a knack for writing memorable tunes.
A series of singles would lead to a pair of acclaimed albums recorded for Frank Kozik's Man's Ruin imprint, but Anderson's involvement in experimental drone-metal outfit Sunn O))) and founding his own label Southern Lord Records (both done in partnership with guitarist Stephen O'Malley) would soon consume much of his time. After splitting up for three years, Anderson and Stahl reconvened with a different rhythm section to record new songs for their Trampled Under Hoof EP in 2004.
Goatsnake went on another hiatus that lasted twice as long, leaving fans longing for another dose of their tuneful, blues-drenched doom until they reunited in 2010 for limited touring and festival appearances. It wouldn't be until earlier this year that the group finally released a new album. Black Age Blues came out this past summer to ecstatic reviews as Anderson and Stahl (this time joined by original drummer Rogers and new bassist Scott Renner) brought in added southern gothic elements to the band's muscular formula.
For this Southern Lord Records showcase tour that plays three dates in the greater Bay Area, Goatsnake will be joined by brutal Seattle death metal band Black Breath, '80s-era San Diego punk band Battalion of Saints and furious LA hardcore revivalists Obliterations (Elbo Room and Catalyst shows only).
Goatsnake
Tuesday, Sept. 22, 8 p.m. $12-$15
Elbo Room
Wednesday, Sept. 23, 7 p.m. $20-$25
The Boardwalk
Thursday, Sept. 24, 8 p.m. $12-$15
The Atrium at the Catalyst