“The musicologist looked me square in the eye and said it couldn’t be done”: Meet Lowen, the heavy trailblazers defying metal rules by playing prog-doom in Middle Eastern and North African styles – scoring them a support tour with Zakk Wylde

Shem Lucas of Lowen.

Lowen are still reeling from the news they’re supporting Zakk Sabbath, featuring legendary Ozzy Osbourne sideman Zakk Wylde, in Europe this month. “We lost our minds when we found out,” says vocalist Nina Saeidi.

Guitarist/bassist Shem Lucas explains: “I’ve been a Zakk Wylde fan for years – I love the way he plays and looks on stage. It’ll be really nerve-wracking to be on tour with him every night!”