Backbone EP by Matriark: A Raw Slice of Swedish Rock Energy
If you’re into rock music with a gritty edge, Backbone EP by Matriark might just hit the spot. Released in 2011 out of Sweden, this short but punchy release delivers exactly what its title suggests—a solid backbone of raw, unfiltered rock. With no big-label backing (it’s self-released under “Not On Label”), Matriark proves that sometimes less polish equals more soul.
The EP kicks off with the title track, Backbone. Right from the opening riff, it grabs your attention like a firm handshake. The guitar work here is tight yet dirty, the kind that makes you wanna crank up the volume and annoy your neighbors. What sticks with me about this track is how simple it feels, but not in a boring way—in a “damn, they nailed it” kinda way. It’s the sort of song that gets stuck in your head without even trying too hard. You don’t need flashy solos or overproduced layers; sometimes all it takes is a killer groove and attitude for days.
Then there’s Venus, which takes things down a notch but still packs a punch. This one leans a bit moodier, with a brooding bassline that anchors the whole vibe. The vocals have this raspy, almost conversational tone that pulls you in like they’re telling you a secret. I remember this track because it feels like the band is letting their guard down just a little, showing a different side to their sound. It’s not trying to blow you away—it’s more like a slow burn that sneaks up on you when you least expect it.
One thing that stands out about Backbone EP is how authentic it feels. There’s no attempt to be something they’re not, no chasing trends or gimmicks. It’s just four guys (or gals? credits are mysteriously missing) laying it all out there, warts and all. And honestly, that’s refreshing in an era where so much music feels engineered for playlists rather than actual human ears.
Reflecting on this EP, I can’t help but think about how underrated smaller releases like this often are. They fly under the radar while bigger names hog the spotlight, but albums like Backbone EP remind us why we fell in love with rock in the first place. Oh, and fun fact: listening to this made me realize my cat hates rock music. Who knew?
So if you’re hunting for something real, give Backbone EP a spin. Just maybe warn your cat first.
