Miss Lava - Under a Black Sun (2025) Hi-Res

Miss Lava's fifth studio album, *Under a Black Sun*, released on April 25, 2025, through Small Stone Records, marks a significant evolution in the band's sound. Celebrating their 20th anniversary, the Lisbon-based quartet delves into darker and heavier emotional territories compared to their previous works. Vocalist Johnny Lee describes the album as "a pretty intense record," influenced by the band's life experiences over recent years, leading them to explore new creative avenues.

The album introduces drummer Pedro Gonçalves, whose addition brings a heavier vibe to the band's dynamic. Recorded and engineered by Miguel “Veg” Marques, who also worked on their previous album *Doom Machine*, the production emphasizes the band's raw energy and psychedelic undertones. Mixed by Steve Lehane and mastered by Chris Goosman, the album features guest contributions, including keyboards by Marques and vocals by Alexandra Quintas “Bebé” on the track “Elara.”

Critics have noted the album's depth and complexity. Steve Howe of Outlaws of the Sun praised it as "an intense and outstanding record that brings a mighty fine and original style of Psych Doom/Stoner Rock." The Razor's Edge highlighted the album's rewarding nature, stating, "It will be easy to dismiss the album after one listen, but with time this album blooms on repeated listens into a wonderful opus."

*Under a Black Sun* stands as a testament to Miss Lava's growth and resilience, offering a richly layered and emotionally charged listening experience that reflects their journey over two decades in the rock scene.