Listening to Borehead’s Vita est Morte est Vita feels like stepping into a vast, shadowy world. This South London trio doesn’t use words to guide you through their music – everything they have to say is in the sound. And it’s a lot. Across four tracks, they build layers of heavy, fuzzed-out riffs, pulsing basslines, and drums that crash and recede like waves.
It’s doom metal at its core, but it doesn’t rush to overwhelm you. The album takes its time, drawing you in with quieter, meditative moments before hitting with the weight of an avalanche. It’s this push-and-pull that keeps things compelling – never too static, never predictable.
What’s striking is how thick and immersive the music feels. The guitar tone alone is massive, a wall of sound that somehow doesn’t suffocate the mix. Beneath it, the bass grooves give everything a sense of movement, while the drums add texture, switching from subtle to thunderous without stealing focus. It’s clear these songs are built for patience – they evolve slowly, letting tension build naturally before delivering catharsis.
Interestingly, the quieter passages hit just as hard emotionally. It’s not all doom and gloom (though there’s plenty of that); there’s a reflective quality to the softer moments, a chance to catch your breath before the next wave crashes.
Instrumental music can sometimes feel distant or impersonal, but that’s not the case here. There’s a strong sense of narrative in each track, even if you can’t pinpoint exactly what it’s “about.” Maybe that’s the point – it’s abstract enough to let you project your own feelings onto it. Whether it’s the slow, deliberate builds or the explosive climaxes, there’s a rawness here that speaks volumes without a single lyric.
One of the album’s strongest traits is its pacing. The transitions between quiet and loud are seamless, creating a flow that feels organic. Nothing feels rushed, and the band knows when to hold back to let the weight of the music sink in.
That said, the album’s density might be a challenge for some. Without vocals or melodic hooks, it can feel impenetrable at first. It’s the kind of record that demands your full attention – and maybe a few repeat listens – to truly connect with. For doom fans, though, that’s part of the appeal.
Vita est Morte est Vita is a bold debut, and Borehead isn’t afraid to take their time exploring the depths of their sound. It’s heavy, hypnotic, and emotionally charged, offering a listening experience that’s as introspective as it is crushing. This isn’t casual listening – it’s music you sit with, immerse yourself in, and come out of feeling a little changed.
If you’re a fan of instrumental doom metal music that leans into atmosphere and emotion, this album is worth the effort. It might not be for everyone, but for those it clicks with, it’s a journey they’ll remember.
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Released by Octopus Rising on November 29th, 2024
Music source for review – Grand Sounds PR
