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#sunno)))&boris #vinyl #vinylrecords
Sunn O))) and Boris are undoubtedly two household names in the world of music. Both acts have revolutionized drone music, introducing it to a wider audience and proving that slow-paced music can be captivating without inducing boredom. With their extensive touring and ability to sustain a single note or chord for up to an hour, Sunn O))) has undeniably altered people’s perception of drone music and what it means to be a metal band. On the other hand, Boris, often considered Japan’s response to Sunn O)))’s American doom movement, draws influence from bands like the Melvins and Earth. Their ability to seamlessly transition between heavy, doom-laden drone and a more traditional classic rock sound has earned them widespread acclaim.
Both Sunn O))) and Boris have released their music on the Southern Lord label, curated by Sunn O))). It was only a matter of time before these two acts collided, resulting in a highly progressive and successful collaboration. The album, titled ‘Altar,’ delivers an awe-inspiring listening experience from start to finish. The opening track, ‘Etna,’ begins with a familiar drone sound, accompanied by distorted harmonies. However, what sets this album apart is the unexpected introduction of drums. Sunn O))) has traditionally shied away from percussion, but the addition of drums brings a new layer of improvisation and unpredictability to the compositions. It seamlessly blends with the dense composition, adding to its overall epic feel.
The real surprise comes in the third track, ‘The Sinking Belle (Blue Sheep),’ where the haunting vocals of Jesse Sykes grace the half-speed atmospheric post-rock piece. This departure from their usual drone hymns brings them closer to the sound of bands like Low or early Mogwai. It may seem unexpected, but upon reflection, it is a natural progression for both bands. As seen with Earth’s album ‘Hex,’ which embraced its country roots and reimagined the band’s sound while maintaining its core essence, Sunn O))) and Boris successfully step out of their comfort zones and present an album that simply “is.” It is a testament to the undeniable talent of both acts.
Throughout the album, Sunn O))) collaborates with other notable artists. Joe Preston, formerly of Earth and widely known as Thrones, lends his voice to ‘Akuma no Kuma,’ while Kim Thayil from grunge superstars Soundgarden contributes his guitar skills to ‘Blood Swamp,’ the album’s epic 15-minute closer. These collaborations showcase the perfect blend of talents, enhancing the overall richness and depth of ‘Altar.’
‘Altar’ is a breathtaking album that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. It challenges existing genre boundaries, redefining what it means to create drone music. This record is a must-listen and stands as one of the most remarkable releases of the year. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the immense talent and creativity of Sunn O))) and Boris.
