Rating: 4/5

Welcome Rootbrain! Their debut album Breakwater has finally released today (June 14, 2023) after much anticipation! The band is comprised of music scene veterans, including members of Triptykon, Profane Omen and Kuolemanlaakso.

Jules Näveri – vocals 
V. Santura – lead guitar
Hurja Helle – rhythm guitar
Thomas Wright – bass
Fat Tony – drums

No frills, Breakwater is a solid album. Old school sound with a fresh coat of paint and anguish, embellished with occasional wisps from the members previously existing bands. Rootbrain consider themselves “Black Grunge”, which is definitely the sound at the core of it all, but there are also constant bursts and streams from every corner of metal, rock and alternative music . The easy flow of ballad breakdowns, electrifying solos, groovy melodies, doomy riffs, heart wrenching harmonies and chill acoustic interludes keeps your ears, mind and soul on edge. Throw all of those things into a blender with a shot of whisky, sunshine, and the notion that this world is going down in flames- and you have Breakwater. I couldn’t imagine a better time of year for this album to have been released than the beginning of summer. Listening to it makes me want nothing more than to lounge in the sun and drink to the end of the world. The album is equally as diverse in lyrical themes, bending from rage to sorrow to power to pain, reflecting the soul of the writer, and the world surrounding them. A positive reflection of the fucknesses of life. Acceptance of the shitty state of the world with a grin. A view of a dystopian hell through rose colored glasses.

Breakwater is saturated with the vibe of guys making music for the sake of music and friendship. Guys who love what they do, and recorded the most professional and intricate jam session ever. In their bio, they describe themselves as a “band built on brotherhood” and this album smacks you in the face with that notion. I can almost see their live show with intense jamming, jokes, tricks, and a laid back but professional stage presence where they are all in sync with each other as well as the audience. This album really makes me want to experience them live. Now. No… like, yesterday!

review by: Serena Solomon