In the crowded arena of comedy metal, where most acts stumble into one-note novelty territory, Psychostick‘s 2011 release Space Vampires VS Zombie Dinosaurs in 3-D stands tall as a gloriously absurd triumph. This third full-length album from the Tempe, Arizona crew—delivers a masterclass in blending razor-sharp riffs with laugh-out-loud lyrics that poke fun at everything from politics to personal failings. It’s not just funny; it’s a surprisingly tight metal record that holds up under repeated spins.
The opener, “Premature Intoxication,” sets the chaotic tone with a faux-concert soundcheck vibe, like stumbling into a mosh pit at a sci-fi convention. From there, it escalates into pure gold: “Welcome to the Show” ropes you in with anthemic hooks, while “Sadface :(” skewers emo tropes in a ballad that’s equal parts heartfelt and hysterical. The standout “Because Boobs” is a cheeky ode to distraction, backed by chugging guitars that could grace a Lamb of God setlist. “Hate Times Eight” deconstructs nu-metal clichés with surgical precision, evoking a self-aware Monty Python sketch over early Mudvayne beats—genius parody that doubles as a love letter to the genre.
Then there’s “Numbers (I Can Only Count to Four),” a math-phobic rant that’s as infectious as it is idiotic, proving Psychostick‘s knack for poignant absurdity amid the fart jokes. The band’s technical chops keep the energy high. Tracks like “Political Bum” and “Intervention for a Good Mood” inject social commentary with funk-tinged grooves, making the laughs feel earned rather than forced. Overall, this is humor-core at its peak: a breath of fresh air for metalheads weary of self-seriousness.
If you’re craving an album that weaponizes silliness without sacrificing shred, dive into this interdimensional brawl. Your playlist (and funny bone) will thank you.