Neurosis have become an institution of heavy music. From their beginnings as a hardcore punk band in the mid-80s to their gradual evolution into a transcendent and genre-defying collective, the Oakland, California natives have broken ground at every turn, pioneering a sound that influenced heavyweights like Isis, Mastodon and High on Fire.

Yet nothing else sounds quite like Neurosis. Marked by subtle dynamics, the desolate vocals of Scott Kelly and Steve von Till, and moments of pure catharsis, Neurosis defy imitation. While their Bay Area peers followed predictable routes, Neurosis saw opportunities for experimentation and innovation everywhere they looked, incorporating a slew of non-traditional elements into their hypnotic brand of music, utilising tribal rhythms, synthesizers and strings while pushing every boundary conceivable. The result is a sound that's as diverse as it is rich, taking cues from sludge, doom and all things heavy, all the while operating outside the boundaries of any one aesthetic.

29 years on, Neurosis schedule has slowed: the band rarely tours and gaps between releases grow larger. But what Neurosis may lack in recent activity they make up for with unbridled intensity, both on record and in the flesh. Live, Neurosis are a revelation: a monolithic presence of near-otherworldly proportions, delivering the kind of sonic experience that's as epic and all-encompassing as you can expect from such a reputable and enigmatic group of artists. Prepare to lose your mind.

Witness Neurosis in the flesh on their first ever Australian tour on the following dates:

August 4 - Brisbane - The Hi Fi w/ Hope Drone

August 5 - Adelaide - HQ w/ Space Bong

August 6 - Perth - Capitol w/ Drowning Horse

August 7 - Melbourne - The Corner Hotel w/ Clagg

August 8 - Melbourne - The Hi Fi w/ Whitehorse

August 9 - Sydney - Manning Bar w/ Adrift for Days

All tickets at lifeisnoise.com, oztix and the venues.