Doomed Confessionary: Tom Brand (Borer)
Photos by Dan Cooper
Borer was expelled into the void in 2021 during the Covid-19 lockdowns in Christchurch, New Zealand by vocalist Tom Brand and guitarist Boden Powell, shortly thereafter fleshed-out by guitarist Tim Hunt, bassist Greg Newton-Topp, and drummer Josh Reid.
Worshipping the tones of Electric Wizard, Iron Monkey, and the like, they released their two-track EP, »Priest Thrower«, in October 2021 which created a buzz in the sludge/doom scene and led to support slots with Beastwars, Stalker, and more, as well as playing some of the most renowned rock and metal festivals in Aotearoa.
2023 saw the Borer crew work away on their debut full-length album, »Bag Seeker«, released on May 10th, 2024 via Landmine Records. The resin-coated grooves of the hulking album deliver five tracks, most of which pass the ten-minute-mark, dragging the listener on a harrowing, bongwater and lukewarm beer bender which culminates in the twenty-one-minute epic »Lord Of The Hanged«.
Can you say a few words about your band?
We’re just a bunch of lads who love filthy sounding riffs.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
I guess it would be the fact we’re from New Zealand we don’t really have the population to really get more exposure. And most kiwis like reggae.
What can you be most proud of so far?
Putting out a full-length album last year and supporting thou when they came to NZ we’ve also got the NZ tour with Conan in March this year.
What was your biggest regret?
I personally try not to regret anything doesn’t do you any good worrying about the past haha.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Probably Thou, those guys were so impressive to witness.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
People actually enjoy our music haha.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Thou, Chained To The Bottom Of The Ocean, Moloch, Dopethrone, Chat Pile, Black Tomb, Acid Bath, Dystopia, Indian, Iron Monkey…
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Stay humble.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Beers substances the boys.
Can you say something more about current music scene in Christchurch?
Christchurch metal scene has always been solid throughout the years every band supports each other but I feel now there is quite a few bands getting a bit more notice internationally
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Conan NZ tour:
March 6th in Wellington
March 7th Christchurch
Match 8th Auckland
What are your plans for the future as a band?
We’re working away on our next album hopefully it’ll be ready for release at the end of the year.
How can people best support your band?
Follow us on our social media. Buy out merch. Come to gigs. Listen to our tunes on Bandcamp/YouTube.
We’re on Spotify but I’d rather give you a download code then give Spotify money.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Cheers to everyone who’s had a listen to our tunes bought merch come to gigs. We appreciate you all.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well