The Mix: A Pacific Northwest Metal Goldmine

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Wizard Rifle.

Justine Murphy/Photic Photographic

Wizard Rifle.

Justine Murphy/Photic Photographic

First Listen

First Listen: YOB, 'Atma'

While the Pacific Northwest has always had a plethora of heavy-hitting musical options to plunder, there's a bit of a renaissance going on today, especially when it comes to doom, sludge and stoner metal. As the producer and host of Seek & Destroy, KEXP's hard-rock and metal show, I've tried to highlight some of the most promising bands from our region, including Red Fang, Wizard Rifle, White Orange, Lesbian, Norska and Brothers of the Sonic Cloth.

I've also included a handful of bands which are no longer active, but remain an influential part of the scene, such as Sleep, Karp and Harkonen. Feel free to recommend your own Pacific Northwest favorites in the comments section.