Boris, the legendary Japanese experimental rock band, returns with their 23rd studio album, "W", a captivating journey through the realms of sludge metal, noise rock, drone, doom metal, stoner rock, shoegaze, and post-rock. Released on January 21, 2022, under Sacred Bones Records, this 41-minute sonic expedition is a testament to Boris's unparalleled ability to blend and transcend genres.
"W" opens with the haunting "I Want to Go to the Side Where You Can Touch…" and takes you through a labyrinth of intense, atmospheric soundscapes. Tracks like "Drowning by Numbers" and "The Fallen" showcase Boris's signature heavy, doom-laden riffs, while "Icelina" and "Beyond Good and Evil" offer moments of ethereal beauty and sonic experimentation. The album's closer, "Jozan," leaves you in a state of blissful drone, a fitting end to this immersive experience.
Boris's mastery of dynamics and texture is on full display in "W". The band's ability to shift from crushing heaviness to delicate, almost ambient passages is a hallmark of their sound, and this album is no exception. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to Boris's music, "W" offers a rich, rewarding listening experience that showcases the band's continued evolution and innovation.