Review Summary: 'New album' delivers a new side to Boris, and also a magnificent one.
The Japanese experimental rock band, Boris have always been known for their continuous, hypnotizing drone/sludge tunes as seen on their earliest releases, and the obvious 'Dronevil.' But in contrast to 'New Album', absolutely nothing 'Drone' or 'Sludgy' like is to be found here. Instead, Boris has reached an entire new momentum that has never been exactly prominent on their earlier work. It’s what you would call fun, energetic, and slightly abrasive J-Pop, Shoegaze, and Industrial. Together, all genres create the album in its entirety and maintain one hell of a fun experience.
As abhorrent as some people may claim Boris's constant drone/sludge material to be (and I've came in contact with a lot of people like this), 'New Album' is incredibly left sided compared to the sluggishness. If you are a fan of J-Pop or just catchy music in general, then 'New Album' may complete you. I mean, it's nothing groundbreaking or anything, but it's sure a hefty break from the drones. And that's a definite fact. Plus after all, J-Pop is typically meant to be a thrill rather than a snooze fest.
'New Game' starts off with 'Flare', an incredibly catchy tune which features dreamy guitar chords and a dandy chorus. 'Black Original' is one of the more harsher ones. It's also one of the fewest Industrial tinged tracks. It has the punishing synth, and the lightly bitter yet approachable vocals. The most melodic piece and shoegaze dosed 'Spoon' in my opinion, is the best song on here for many reasons. Some in particular are the sparkling bells/chimes, emotional guitar riffs, and even the soothing voice that would fit perfectly for a relaxing moment gazing upon the stars. It's greatly progressed, and is one of Boris's best. 'Looprider' is the finally, and probably the fewest tied with 'Spoon' that would be the most melodic or hypnotizing on 'New Album'.
So there you have it, a new Boris album that has (for once) taken the Drone side out of the closet and replaced it with J-Pop and Shoegaze. Whether you hate Boris or love them, you must look into this. It's sure to not disappoint and will almost feel like you're listening to yet another random J-Pop band picked out from the streets. Please, buy this now and....dance!
