Available now across all major streaming platforms and Bandcamp, the new record cements Grey Stag’s position as one of the most forward-thinking and exciting acts in Ireland’s heavy music scene.
“Mountain Breaker” arrives as a culmination of years of hard graft. As the band revealed in a recent statement, the seeds for this new chapter were sown during the recording of Call of the Mountain, three years ago. Since then, the EP has grown into something far more formidable—equal parts crushing, chaotic and calculated.
From the moment the opening riff hits, “Mountain Breaker” sounds like a band fully dialled into their own identity. Across its five tracks—including the thunderous lead single Cauldron Born, and a brilliantly executed cover of Thin Lizzy’s Emerald—Grey Stag showcase their signature blend of groove-laden sludge, technical flourishes, and primal energy. The EP also includes a reimagining of the traditional tune Blessington Maid, adding a uniquely Irish twist to their already distinctive sound.
The band give huge credit to producer Aidan Cunningham, whose mixing and mastering work delivers clarity without sacrificing the weight or grit of their sound. Visually, the record is equally arresting, thanks to the stunning artwork from Dabulga Design—a piece that’s sure to shine on vinyl as well as the small screen.
Speaking of visuals, the official music video for Cauldron Born—crafted by Cosmopalace—is a wild ride of dark humour and cinematic slickness, offering fans a surreal visual companion to the track’s heavy groove.
The release was made possible through support from the Arts Council of Ireland’s Music Project Award, alongside the band’s passionate fanbase, many of whom pre-ordered the vinyl and now have access to digital downloads via Bandcamp.
With “Mountain Breaker”, Grey Stag haven’t just built on their past—they’ve shattered it, setting the stage for a heavier, weirder, and more ambitious future. If this is where the mountain breaks, one can only imagine what lies beyond the summit.
Listen to “Mountain Breaker” here.
Oran O’Beirne
www.overdrive.ie 2025
