5th August 2023

Review: “Self Titled” by Eftboren

Produced by Sam Chatt (Young Ghosts, Scumgod, Goliath) at Sound Sanctum Studio, the self titled debut of Black Metal duo Eftboren has been a long gestating piece of work. Refining their musical chemistry by making otherworldly noise together since early adolescence, it’s only now that the duo feel accomplished enough to share their musings. Promising a nod to the ancient warriors of the old guard while exploring new uncharted territory, they present an unholy trinity to test our Metal and shake the foundations that surround…

Having the raw, adrenaline fuelled feel of a live performance “Devoured By Saturn” is the kind of brutal introduction that every Black Metal band should want to offer. A lethal assault on the senses laced with blast beats and Sludge toned guitars, it has all the classic genre hallmarks without sounding like it was recorded in a cave on a single microphone. There is a lot more to it than meets the eye however as over multiple listens fleeting moments of Doom Metal rise to the surface along with some ethereal undertones despite the shroud of darkness that cloaks it all. There is venom in the caustic bark of the vocal which means it is worse than the bite but after that furious virgin sacrifice to the alter of madness, things take a bleak turn. Shoegazing psychedelia infused Post-Metal accompanied by clean vocals is what “Sol” has to offer and while it doesn’t have the claustrophobic crush of Hundred Year Old Man it’s not too far adrift with poetic lyrics that bleed self immolation. The weight and gravity of despair is there for all to witness, as is the bravery of putting this piece alongside something so brazenly Black Metal. An unholy trinity is completed with “Treespell“, another seven minute surpassing magnum opus that is boldly dark and surprisingly epic. Odd time signature percussion finds the band in the realms of Finnish acts like Kouta, flirting with ethereal sounds that mimic the wilds of nature with their instrumental meanderings and drama. There is an almost theatrical quality to this maelstrom which has more twists and turns than a psychological horror novel and leaves you questioning your perception of reality. Remember, death is only the beginning… [7/10]

Track Listing