8 Best Doom Metal Guitar Players

Doom Metal! It’s like the deep, moody, and intense cousin of the metal genre family. For those who might be wondering what it is, doom metal is characterized by slower tempos, low-tuned guitars, and a much ‘heavier’ or ‘thicker’ sound.

Today, let’s talk about the guys who make their guitars wail in despair and create those heavy, somber atmospheres – the legendary doom metal guitarists!

1. Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath

Let’s kick things off with the Godfather of Doom Metal himself, Mr. Tony Iommi from the legendary Black Sabbath. This man is a pioneer, shaping the sound of metal with his down-tuned, heavy riffs. After an accident that cost him two fingertips, Iommi crafted plastic fingertips and tuned his guitar lower to ease the tension on the strings, inadvertently birthing the doom metal sound. This man’s innovative playing and heavy, sinister riffs are the bedrock of doom metal, influencing countless bands.

2. Greg Anderson of Sunn O)))

Then there’s Greg Anderson, one half of the drone doom duo Sunn O))). This guy creates an avalanche of sound, transforming the guitar into a generator of densely layered sonic textures. His approach to playing is avant-garde, using feedback, amplifiers, and effect pedals to create overwhelming soundscapes. It’s not just music; it’s an immersive experience, a journey through the dark abyss of sound.

3. Matt Pike of Sleep

Moving on, let’s talk about the Stoner Doom legend, Matt Pike from Sleep. This dude is a riff machine! His guitar work is relentless, powerful, and radiates a raw energy that is contagious. Whether it’s the iconic “Dopesmoker” or the energetic “Dragonaut,” Pike’s playing is the embodiment of stoner doom brilliance.

4. Wino of Saint Vitus

Scott “Wino” Weinrich of Saint Vitus is a veteran in the doom metal scene, having been a part of iconic bands like The Obsessed and Spirit Caravan. Wino’s playing style is visceral and raw, brimming with emotion. His riffs are haunting, echoing the classic doom sound with a touch of punk and rock ‘n’ roll flair.

5. Lori S. of Acid King

In the world of stoner doom, Lori S. of Acid King is a renowned figure. Her guitar work is hypnotic, a heavy psychedelic journey through riffs laden with fuzz and distortion. Lori’s playing style is distinctive, it immerses the listener into a trance-like state.

6. Liz Buckingham of Electric Wizard

Speaking of groundbreaking, Liz Buckingham of Electric Wizard has made substantial waves in the doom metal scene. Her guitar work is a pivotal element of Electric Wizard’s sound, characterized by distorted, heavy, and psychedelic riffs. She coaxes a wall of sound from her instrument, contributing to the band’s dense and atmospheric soundscapes that have defined their style.

7. Kim Thayil of Soundgarden

While Soundgarden is primarily known as a grunge band, Kim Thayil’s guitar work exhibits significant elements of doom metal. His slow, heavy riffs, and unique tuning have contributed to some of the most iconic and influential songs in the genre. The atmospheric and moody sound he creates has had a significant influence on both doom metal and alternative rock.

8. Thomas Jäger of Monolord

Thomas Jäger, the frontman and guitarist of Monolord, has been a significant contributor to the newer wave of doom metal. His riffs are colossal and enveloping, defined by a crushing heaviness and a haunting melody.