Barely having had time to recover from the chilling 2012 full length Cold of Ages, Californians Ash Borer are back with another EP of monstrous proportions – two tracks that clock in at over 15 minutes apiece, this EP would rival most studio albums.

Both songs are raw and atmospheric, however ‘Oblivion’s Spring‘ incorporates a morose post rock guitar loop, that repeats itself throughout the entire track. ‘Dirge/Purgation’ is heavy on the drone and feels slower compared to its predecessor, even becoming sluggish in places.

Whilst Ash Borer are fast, brutal and totally uncompromising black metal, what makes them stand out, especially on this EP, is their ability to pull from the influences of other genres in order to enhance their sound. The inclusion of post rock elements, finely intertwined with drone, whilst occasionally wandering into doom territory make Ash Borer completely abstract. Their music creates a sense of unease, that can be utterly terrifying, however, beauty can be found in discomfort and it seems that this five piece revel in just that.

8/10

Angela Davey

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