Music Review: ‘Diabolic Formation’ by Pale Horse Ritual – Metal Insider
Confession time: I am, by all accounts, a secret cannabis user. Not the stereotypical stoner glued to a Bob Marley poster or the medical user with a cardigan and a list of reasons. I fall somewhere in between, able to function in daily life but seeking moments of introspection. It’s an odd cultural niche to occupy, straddling the worlds of therapeutic and recreational cannabis use, but music becomes the great unifier in this space. Doom, stoner rock, psychedelic fuzz – they are the neutral ground where both cannabis users meet. Whether seeking relief from anxiety or aiming for a transcendent experience, these genres bring people together in shared musical experiences that transcend boundaries.
Pale Horse Ritual’s latest offering, ‘Diabolic Formation,’ released on November 28, 2025, exemplifies the stoner/doom genre. The album is like a slow descent into a murky pool of distortion, with guitar melodies encircling the listener like tendrils. Even if you have never touched cannabis, the music creates a compelling narrative within your mind, akin to a vivid cinematic experience.
The album’s production was helmed by guitarist Will Adams, who crafted a sound that seeps into your soul gently without overwhelming. Vocalist Paco’s delivery hovers between prophetic and enchanting, while Matheson’s guitar work flits like a specter in the night. Jonah Santa-Barbara’s drumming acts as the driving pulse of the ritual. With the addition of guest performer Doom Valhalla, who brings a theatrical flair to the music, Pale Horse Ritual transforms their performance into a spiritual encounter rather than a mere throwback to the past.
Unlike other contemporary doom bands that merely imitate the aesthetics of the past, Pale Horse Ritual breathes life into the genre. Their music, slow enough for contemplation, heavy enough for anxiety, and atmospheric enough for detachment, strikes a chord with listeners seeking solace or escape.
Selecting the top three standout tracks from the album was a challenging task. “Wickedness,” an immersive and hypnotic track, captures the essence of convergence between medical and recreational cannabis users. “Save You” evokes an autumnal mood akin to Eric Clapton’s “Layla,” with a darker edge that sets the tone for intense experiences. Lastly, “Bloody Demon” injects a rock ‘n’ roll spirit into the mix, allowing listeners to sway to the rhythm with the confidence of someone in the midst of a psychedelic journey.
In conclusion, Pale Horse Ritual’s ‘Diabolic Formation’ blurs the lines between therapeutic and recreational cannabis experiences through its immersive musical landscape. Whether seeking pain relief or a temporary escape, the album resonates with listeners on a profound level. It stands as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and create shared experiences in the most unexpected of places.