The title, stoner metal, is somewhat of a controversy in the rock and metal community anymore, but that is still the word I am going to use for the incredible Orange Goblin. The foundation they have built over almost thirty years is undeniable. On July 19th, 2024, Orange Goblin will be releasing their tenth studio album titled, Science, Not Fiction, and it is a phenomenal addition to their already brilliant catalog.
In 1995 in London, four guys decided to start a band and mix together some of their favorite influences. Orange Goblin began with friends: Ben Ward (vocals), Joe Hoare (guitar), Chris Turner (drums), and Martyn Millard (bass). Miller left the band in 2020 amicably, and longtime friend Harry Armstrong took over on bass. While they assumed they would just play little shows here and there, the music world had different plans for them, and soon they blew up to playing multiple festivals and headliners.
Science, Not Fiction is a little dissimilar than some of their previous albums. Ward has taken another path with his lyrics and became more personal. With his sobriety has come clarity and a different view on life, and because of this, this album has created some catharsis for him. “Ascend the Negative”, talks about having a more positive overview and, “reclaiming the skies”. I love the message here and the musical elements add a nearly perfect track. There is a part that slows down with chugging guitars that drives you further into the experience. “End of Transmission” takes you on a journey in one song. It has some melodies that you easily soar on and breathe with the music. I highly recommend this album to any fan of the genre.
Ben was kind enough to sit down with Metal Nation and discuss this album among many other topics. (If you are viewing from your phone, please scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “View Desktop Version” to gain video and interview access).