Stoned Jesus Songs To Moon Review
Stoned Jesus
Songs To Moon
Season Of Mist
2026
Ukrainian Stoner/Doom titans Stoned Jesus have returned with the second installment of what’s planned to be a trilogy. Last year’s “Songs To Sun” was easily one of the best releases in the genre, and now the band’s follow-up, “Songs To Moon,” looks to claim that title again in 2026.
The album starts off a little abrasive and rough-and-tumble, but it doesn’t take long before that gives way to a more melodic, laid-back approach. There’s even some falsetto-style vocal work sprinkled in, not anything too high, mind you, but it adds another layer to the atmosphere. And atmosphere is something this album has in spades. I’ve been riding with Stoned Jesus for several years now and watching this band grow by leaps and bounds has been one hell of a ride. Their musical palette has expanded considerably, and it continues to shift with every release. There’s a moodiness here that we haven’t experienced quite this way from the band before, but then again, the title of the album is “Songs To Moon.”
I’m not necessarily a fan of Opeth. I’ve tried my ass off, but I just can’t fully commit. That said, I find “Songs To Moon” eerily reminiscent of the thinking and vibe behind Opeth’s “Damnation.” Not a direct take, not a copy, just a similar lane in terms of mood and approach. Nothing is overdone, and nothing feels forced. It’s consistently organic, building with each track and rising and falling with the tides of the music. The songwriting and arrangements are extravagant and genuinely beautiful, especially considering SJ are three-piece band.
I originally got into Stoned Jesus because of their Stoner/Doom approach, but on “Songs To Moon,” I’m still here because they’ve taken that foundation and completely morphed it with Prog, Doom, and Grunge/Alternative to create something that feels uniquely their own. Without a doubt, this is the band’s best effort yet. Long-time fans aren’t just going to herald this one, they’re going to lose their fucking minds.
I’m absolutely blown away by the sheer talent and beauty living inside “Songs To Moon.” This is Stoned Jesus stretching their legs, throwing open the doors, and showing just how much further they can go without losing the identity that got us here in the first place.
Standouts – “Velvet”, “Jackal”, “One More Empty Day” and “Under The Skin”.