Masters Of Reality – The Archer (Gold Vinyl)

After a 16-year hiatus, Masters of Reality returns with The Archer, a compelling blend of blues, psychedelia, and desert rock that reaffirms Chris Goss's status as a visionary in modern rock. The album’s nine tracks, spanning just under 40 minutes, showcase a refined and introspective sound, with Goss’s distinctive vocals and guitar work at the forefront. From the hypnotic grooves of "Mr. Tap N' Go" to the soulful tones of "Barstow," The Archer offers a rich tapestry of sonic textures that both honor the band’s legacy and venture into new musical territory.

Critics have praised The Archer for its restraint, clarity, and confident execution. Goss resists overproduction, instead delivering a tightly sculpted album that rewards attentive listening. With its blend of blues rock, desert atmospherics, and hints of avant-garde experimentation, the album feels like a personal statement—focused, inventive, and deeply rooted in the band’s unique aesthetic. The Archer marks a triumphant return for Masters of Reality, offering both longtime fans and new listeners a rewarding and immersive experience.

Reviews

"The Archer is an old-school album timewise, just nine tracks and 39 minutes. Experienced producer that he is, Goss has resisted the temptation to turn on the firehose and let everything he’s recorded gush out brainlessly. It feels like these songs have been nurtured and crafted, carefully sculptured by the hand of a man who knows exactly what he wants them to be." — Louder Sound

"Masters of Reality has always driven their own course. Rightly credited as a major influence on the desert rock scene, the band’s canvas was spread much wider. The Archer comprises nine tracks that span just under 40 minutes, making it an easily digestible record but not one that diverts from the quality that Goss has always crafted." — The Miserable Metal Mind Podcast

"The fusion of blues rock with what would later become the desert rock vibe popularised by QOTSA mixed in with quirky hints of avant-garde inspired by the likes of the iconic Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart makes for an intriguing listen." — Noizze

"The Archer undoubtedly reveals more with repeated plays and much like the album concept itself, the core elements can be found by the listener who pays attention. One part a splurge and one part a coherent statement of intent, The Archer offers a teasing musical glimpse of the Masters Of Reality future musical direction." — Get Ready to ROCK!