Boneyard – Black Static

Boneyard
Black Static
Out: 23^rd October 2026
Playing time: 41:44

Six years have passed since the Canadian rock band Boneyard released their debut album, ‘Oathbreaker’. Six years? In my review, I noted 27th August 2021 as the release date. That was the day the album was distributed worldwide via WormHoleDeath Records. But apparently, the Edmonton-based quartet had already released the album independently one year earlier. Now the follow-up, ‘Black Static’ is out, once again as a self-release.

Fast, heavy guitar riffs kick off ‘Met You In A Dream’, driven by the drums. Frontwoman Pamtera Cunningham sings with a clear voice. Despite its catchiness, the song is mostly quite fast. The lyrics for ‘Left Me To Drown’ were written by bassist Lezzy Osbourne. So the song also starts with a short bass line. And she takes the lead vocals as well. Alternating with Pamtera. This is arguably the heaviest track on the album. Although this heaviness is by no means overdone. On ‘Ready For A Change’, guitar sounds can be heard as if in a classic fade-in, before the drums kick in rhythmically. Riffs join in later. In keeping with the sombre theme, the ballad “Not This Way (Joel’s Song)” is characterised by dark, melancholic and at times intense guitar work. It tells the true story of Joel, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. As no one can help him, he becomes addicted to drugs and dies of an overdose. ‘Blood In The Bond’ begins with a bass line written by Lezzy. There’s a slight punk edge to it. ‘Before The Fall’ kicks off with heavy yet thoroughly catchy guitar riffs. Alongside the beautiful melodies, the harmonious vocal arrangements and the superb guitar solo are particularly captivating. It’s a song that’s sure to go wild live and is likely to be sung along to loudly by the fans. ‘Hanging Tree’ opens with a touch of Wild West and folk atmosphere. In between, fast riffs and rumbling drums can be heard. The guitars majestically introduce ‘Compass Points To War’. Then the beautiful guitar melodies take centre stage. The word ‘Fire’, which the band keeps shouting out, sounds like a ship’s cannon being fired. No wonder, as the song is, after all, about a naval battle. The highlight is, once again, a fast, melodic guitar solo. But Pamtera’s clear vocals also make a strong impression here. As a bonus, the piano version of ‘Before The Fall’ rounds off the album. Arranged by lead guitarist Garhardt, the track would fit perfectly as a film soundtrack.

Almost forty minutes of classical Melodic Hard Rock – that’s what Boneyard offer their fans on ‘Black Static’. Plenty of catchy melodies, outstanding vocals and a clear, powerful production make for a highly entertaining listen. But also, heavy riffs and varied songwriting. They are sure to appeal to a wide range of Rock and Metal fans.

Boneyard – Hanging Tree: https://youtu.be/vudfSBqQYUg?si=jFzFoLJVvheV__x8

Lineup:

Pamtera Cunningham – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Lezzy Osbourne – Bass
Jeff “Jefftimus” Cunningham – Drums
Gary “Garhardt ” Ursulak – Lead Guitar

Track list:

• Met You in a Dream
• Left Me to Drown
• Ready for a Change
• Not this Way (Joel’s Song)
• Blood in the Bond
• Before the Fall
• Hanging Tree
• Compass Points to War
• Before the Fall (Piano Rendition)