Sleep are an American stoner doom metal band formed in 1990 in San Jose, California. Widely regarded as one of the most influential bands in heavy music, their slow, hypnotic riffs and deeply immersive compositions helped define the sound and aesthetic of modern stoner and doom metal.
Built on repetition, groove, and sheer sonic weight, Sleep create music that is as much about atmosphere and experience as it is about structure—long-form, meditative, and unmistakably heavy.
Sleep emerged from the ashes of Asbestosdeath, a band formed in 1989 featuring Al Cisneros, Matt Pike, and Chris Hakius. Following the exit of Tom Choi and the recruitment of Justin Marler, the band changed their name to Sleep in 1990.
With this shift, the group refined their sound into the slow, riff-driven style that would come to define them, drawing from early doom influences and psychedelic rock while helping lay the groundwork for stoner doom.
Sleep’s 1992 album Sleep’s Holy Mountain established them as a rising force, but it was Dopesmoker—their hour-long, single-track composition—that cemented their legendary status. Originally recorded in the mid-1990s, the album became one of the most talked-about releases in underground metal, known for its uncompromising vision and sheer scale.
An earlier version of the album was released in 1999 as Jerusalem by The Music Cartel without the band’s approval. Sleep have since discredited this release, citing issues with both its quality and unauthorised nature.
Over time, Dopesmoker has become a cornerstone of doom metal, influencing countless bands and redefining what heavy music could be.
Sleep split up in 1998. Following the breakup, Matt Pike went on to form High on Fire, while Al Cisneros and Chris Hakius formed Om.
A reunion took place in 2009, marking the band’s return to live performances and renewed activity. Following this, Chris Hakius retired from music and was replaced by Jason Roeder of Neurosis, solidifying the modern line-up.
Despite a relatively small catalogue, Sleep have had an enormous impact on both stoner metal and doom metal. Their emphasis on tone, repetition, and atmosphere has influenced generations of heavy bands.
Their 2018 release The Sciences marked a full studio return, reaffirming their status as pioneers of slow, hypnotic, riff-driven music.
Each release represents a key moment in the evolution of heavy, immersive sound.
All Sleep releases we carry are high-quality CD and vinyl, sourced from authorised labels and trusted distributors. We focus strictly on physical audio formats — CD and vinyl only.
Stock rotates regularly, so if something catches your eye, it’s worth picking it up while available. We are always working to expand the range with more releases and, where possible, apparel if it becomes available from approved suppliers.
Sleep are a massive part of the US Stoner and Doom Metal scene, so if you fancy exploring more like-minded artists, have a look through our STONER and DOOM METAL categories. You might also like to read our blog on the different subgenres of Metal \m/
Fans of Electric Wizard, Om, and High on Fire will find Sleep essential listening within the world of heavy, hypnotic doom.
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