The Lucid: Saddle Up and Ride & Mumps

On the 27th of January, The Lucid will be releasing their 5 song EP Saddle Up and Ride.

Who are The Lucid?

The Lucid is Vinnie Dombroski (Sponge), Dave Ellefson (formerly of Megadeth), Drew Fortier (formerly of Bang Tango) and Mike Heller (Malignancy, Fear Factory).

If you have a vast taste of music, then the gentlemen by name should be no stranger to you.

Formed in 2020 by Fortier and Heller while demoing songs, Ellefson and Dombroski would join and record their self-titled debut album.

On the heels of their upcoming release, The Lucid released two tracks last month.

First up was “Saddle Up and Ride” featuring Violent J of Insane Clown Posse. This track is a sonic assault on the ears. The song showcases the talent of Heller as he slays beat after beat. His beats lay down the foundation for the heavy chug of the guitar and bass. With the track, Dombroski is vocally heard in the chorus which makes me curious how they are going to play this track live. He has one of the most distinct and underrated voices of rock-n-roll so to only hear him on the chorus was a bit of a shock to my ears. Fortier steps in about mid song with a wailing guitar solo that is a much needed breathing moment for the listener. Overall, the heavier part of my music soul digs this song and how Violent J folds himself into the song.

Days later, the foursome released, “Mumps” which I consider to be a complete 180 from the title track. First and foremost, the bass in this song. Good god almighty, Ellefson’s bass on this song is great. It’s so funky and fun, I triple checked to make sure it was him playing bass. He’s not known for “bass slapping rhythm” but I’m so glad he channeled his inner Flea and attacked his instrument with funky vigor. It’s one of the best features of the song. Unlike the title track, Domboski’s vocals are up front where they should be and this time, it’s Fortier who has pulled back, quietly playing without an epic guitar solo. Overall, my bass loving soul absolutely gags at the bass in this song.

If these first two releases are any indication of what the Saddle Up and Ride EP is going to be, it’s going to be sonic, funky, and a ton of fun.

Photo credit: The Lucid Facebook