"Noise," the nineteenth studio album by Japanese rock titans Boris, is a sprawling, cathartic masterpiece that showcases the band's unparalleled versatility and mastery of their craft. Released on June 17, 2014, via Sargent House, this double album is a testament to Boris's ability to blend genres with seamless ease, drawing from sludge metal, noise rock, drone, doom metal, stoner rock, shoegaze, and post-rock to create a sonic landscape that is uniquely their own.
Clocking in at just under an hour, "Noise" is a journey through the band's signature sounds, from the heavy, distorted riffs of "Heavy Rain" to the ethereal, ambient textures of "Quicksilver." The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Melody," setting the stage for the diverse range of styles that follow. Standout tracks like "Vanilla" and "Ghost of Romance" highlight Boris's knack for crafting memorable, melodic hooks amidst the chaos, while "Angel" and "Taiyo No Baka" showcase the band's penchant for atmospheric, otherworldly soundscapes.
Boris has always been a band that defies easy categorization, and "Noise" is no exception. The album is a pick 'n' mix bag of their strongest idioms, drawing from their extensive discography to create something fresh and exciting. Fans of Boris's earlier work will find much to love here, as the band revisits familiar territory while also pushing their sound in new directions. The album's Japanese edition, released via Avex Group's sub-label Tearbridge Records, includes additional tracks that further expand on the album's themes.
"Noise" is a stunning example of Boris's ability to blend genres and create something truly unique. Whether you're a long-time fan of the band or a newcomer to their music, this album is sure to impress with its sheer scope and ambition. With its diverse range of styles and unforgettable hooks, "Noise" is a standout addition to Boris's already impressive discography.