WELCOME BACK. English alt-rock group, bôa, releases their first album in twenty years. The album, titled “Whiplash,” features incredible instrumentals and highlights Jasmine Rodgers’ unique vocals (Screenshot from “Bôa – Whiplash (Official Music Video)” by Bôa on YouTube).

“And you don’t seem to understand” just how influential bôa, an English alternative rock group, has been since their formation in London in 1992. Initially composed of drummer Ed Herten, keyboardist Paul Turrell, guitarist/vocalist Steve Rodgers, bassist Alex Caird, guitarist Ben Henderson and vocalist Jasmine Rodgers, the band’s lineup saw changes when Herten was replaced by drummer Lee Sullivan in 1994.

The group is most recognized for their iconic track “Duvet,” released in 1998 as the opening theme for the Japanese anime series Serial Experiments Lain. The song’s resurgence across social media platforms during quarantine in 2021 expanded bôa’s fanbase across multiple generations and increased their global reach.

Throughout their studio career, bôa has released two previous albums: Twilight (2001) and Get There (2005). On Oct. 18, the band returned with their third album Whiplash, which marks their first full-length project in 20 years. The album features Jasmine Rodgers on vocals and guitar, Lee Sullivan on drums, percussion, and keyboard and Alex Caird on bass. The 13 track album, which runs for 47 minutes, is a testament to bôa’s evolution in both sound and vision.

Promotion for this album revisited the band’s origins; bôa’s Instagram account featured a video compilation of anime scenes set to one of the album’s songs, emphasizing the enduring connection between bôa and the anime culture that helped popularize their breakthrough, “Duvet.”

Whiplash produces a more mature sound compared to their earlier releases as it presents complex layers and polished production that enhance overall depth and listening experience. Some tracks echo the textures and chaotic energy similar to the dreamlike arrangements of the Cocteau Twins all while maintaining the band’s distinct alt-rock identity. The album showcases solid sound quality with a tight balance between instrumentation and vocals, which are expertly mixed throughout the entire album.

Across the album, bôa explores themes of tension and release; one standout track, “Worry,” demonstrates the band’s ability to build suspense. The song’s harmony, notably lower than the melody, alongside background vocals, crafts a sinister, almost haunting atmosphere. The word “worry,” when sung by Rodgers, slices through the instrumental chaos the group had successfully created, yet her vocals release unexpected relief at the peak of the melody’s dissonance.

In contrast, “Let Me Go,” Whiplash’s first track, features a delicate-folk style guitar opening that invites the listener into the album. The vocals add a layer of emotional depth that enrich the song’s intricate background. The lines, “All the things I’ve given you / let me go,” and, “In the end / all the years,” create a bittersweet sense of closure, making the song feel like both a goodbye and welcoming.

The album also showcases more adventurous instrumental choices. “Seafarer” features a smooth, almost rolling bassline that mimics the gentle motion of ocean waves, while the track, “I Don’t Know” opens with a punchy bassline that maintains bôa’s characteristic groove and funk roots. Although initially different, both songs successfully highlight the prominence of the vocals which differs from the approach to past albums.

While each song on Whiplash offers strong production and a cohesive sound, the album as a whole feels slightly repetitive. However, this consistency is truly what makes bôa’s comeback successful as it creates a unified listening experience as adjacent tracks blend seamlessly from start to finish.

Overall, Whiplash provides a refreshing listening experience, and it showcased bôa’s distinct and mature sound. The album’s blend of complex layers, ethereal instrumentals, and emotional depth made it a rewarding listen. With its meticulously crafted tracks, Whiplash is sure to resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners, making it a fulfilling return for bôa.

Rating: ★★★½