Sunn 0))) & Boris - Altar
Southern Lord – SUNN62 – 2006
By Nathan Pearce
This is not a split album. This is
Sunn 0))) and
Boris collaborating on each and every song. There are six songs, in fact, and each of them offers something truly enjoyable. For fans of
Sunn 0))), please note that not every song carries the weight of the “heavy drone” that
Sunn 0))) plays almost exclusively. In fact,
Boris’ inclusion of drums makes
Sunn 0))) that much more of an intense beast. If you can’t stand the drone happy
Sunn 0))), but you really dig some of the psychedelic rock/feedback-drenched clamor of some of
Boris’ more listenable outings, there is plenty to offer you folks as well. Much in the way
Boris adds a new dimension to
Sunn 0)))’s singular approach to droning,
Sunn 0))) adds a new “weight” and depth to
Boris’ style.
The album starts off with a slow droning piece reminiscent of much of what
Sunn 0))) has been offering for several years now, but the song quickly morphs into something new and different. Once
Boris enters the fold with drums and feedback, it is clear
Altar is going to offer something beyond what both bands normally offer.
Song #2, “N.L.T.”, is a short journey into atmospheric drone with an inspiring use of subtle feedback. Again, this isn’t something I would have expected from either band.
“The Sinking Belle (Blue Sheep)” is truly where the listener realizes something truly amazing is going on with the collaboration. Stunning, subtle, beautiful, and haunting vocals provided by Jesse Sykes are the driving force behind this awesome piece similar to something off the latest
Earth album. This song fits the framework of the overall album, but it is something that I’m sure NOBODY expected from these two bands. In fact, the price of this CD is easily worth it just for this song.
I won’t divulge every moment on this album, but I will say that the album offers much in the way of variety and progression for both bands. Hell, the contributions of Kim Thayil, Joe Preston, and a few others are almost secondary to everything else this album has to offer.
Altar is truly a brilliant collaboration by two of the world’s foremost doom/drone/psychedelic bands. Here’s to hoping this isn’t their only outing.
8.5/10
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