Boris, the Japanese experimental metal band, unleashed a sonic beast with their 2005 album "04092001" on Relapse Records. Clocking in at a concise 32 minutes, this album is a relentless journey through a labyrinth of heavy, distorted, and atmospheric sounds. Boris masterfully blend sludge metal, noise rock, drone, doom metal, stoner rock, shoegaze, and post-rock to create a unique and immersive experience.
The album opens with "it continues waiting for a headrone fish," setting the tone with a slow, heavy, and hypnotic riff that draws you in. "heavy friends" follows, delivering a crushing wall of sound that showcases Boris's signature blend of heaviness and melody. The title track, "04092001," is a standout, featuring a mix of crushing riffs and ethereal melodies that showcase the band's dynamic range.
Throughout the album, Boris explores themes of isolation, introspection, and the vastness of the natural world. Tracks like "wareruraido" and "koei" feature ambient soundscapes and subtle melodies that evoke a sense of tranquility amidst the chaos. Meanwhile, songs like "death valley" and "dyna-soar" deliver crushing riffs and relentless rhythms that showcase the band's raw power.
"04092001" is a testament to Boris's ability to blend genres and create something truly unique. The album is a must-listen for fans of heavy music, but it also offers something for those who appreciate atmospheric and experimental sounds. Whether you're a longtime fan of Boris or a newcomer to their music, "04092001" is an album that demands your attention.