Yes, so it is. This is a stunning package, really. An all around A+ from the music, to the liner notes, to the music, to the packaging, to the music, to the care with which this was executed. What's that? Why mention the music thrice? Because that's what it's all about and there are three killer CDs chock full of groove, fuzz, and rawk. Sure, so-called Stoner Rock is not for everyone but this is a brilliant sampler from one of the record labels that took a chance on a sound the founders simply loved. They didn't care about identifying genres or creating stratification. They just had a love for all that is Heavy.

As such, it is quite fitting that MeteorCity has since been absorbed into All That is Heavy. Hell, O.J. Simpson himself would have a hard time denying any discussion of a glove in this regard, but that's a digression.... Whatever the case, some of the music offered here is startlingly simple, some of it starkly beautiful, while some of it just rocks with an abandon and swagger looking for ears to melt and brains to explode. No, the forebears in Monster Magnet are not the be-all, end-all of this kind of musical expression. If seeking a way to broaden one's horizons, as if to heed the desert's call, check this out with a quickness. It won't set anyone back much green (uh, money, friend), but it will expand one's mind. Viva MeteorCity and long live the Rock. Thanks to Aaron and Jadd.

Highlight, if only one can be chosen: Iron Maiden's "Murders in the Rue Morgue" as covered by Cosmosquad with Ray Alder of Fate's Warning on lead throat. TD loves Metal, after all. \m/

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 223:48