Finnish-German alternative metal outfit Rootbrain has unleashed their latest EP, “Mothertomb”, a four-track powerhouse that bridges the raw intensity of their debut album, “Breakwater”, with the evolving depths of their next full-length record. With its release today via Corpsepaint Records, “Mothertomb” solidifies Rootbrain’s presence in the alternative metal scene.
The EP’s third single, ‘Mothertomb,’ embodies the emotional weight and creative chemistry that define Rootbrain. Crafted in the solitude of a lakeside retreat, the song emerged from a deeply personal and transformative period for guitarist Helle. As he processed the grief of losing his father and the heartbreak of a dissolved relationship, an evocative acoustic pattern surfaced, capturing the essence of loss and resilience. Over time, it evolved into the gripping, sonically immersive track that stands as the EP’s emotional cornerstone.
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Unlike past recording sessions, Mothertomb was shaped instinct-first, embracing spontaneity and trust in the band’s collective strengths. Vocalist Jules Näveri reflects on the experience:
This EP has a major flesh-on-bones moment when we decided to record the Garbage cover ‘#1CRUSH.’ That track ignited a creative flow that carried into the rest of the songs. The four tracks may be vastly different, but on this EP, they work as a cohesive unit. It felt like we were creating in real-time, letting instincts lead the way.
The songwriting and recording process proved to be both exhilarating and draining. Thomas Wright, the band’s bassist and a key songwriter, recalls the intensity of the sessions:
Mothertomb is a bridge between Breakwater and the next full-length. This was the first time we entered the studio with a complete lineup and knew exactly what tools we had at our disposal. That meant leaving more room for Jules’ vocals and refining our sonic identity. Now, we know precisely what we’re doing, whereas on Breakwater, we were still experimenting.
The Story Behind ‘Mothertomb’
Jules describes the deeply personal nature of the song:
When I was writing the lyrics for the ‘Mothertomb’ song, I needed a safe place for my thoughts. I felt I needed to get something out from my system which had been occupying my thoughts for a longer period of time. I don’t want to reveal too much about the lyrics because I hope people can interpret them freely. The song was born in late-night escape sessions between Helle and Thomas. I started writing the lyrics when I heard the first demo version of the song much later on.
The EP’s other tracks follow suit in emotional depth and intensity. ‘Svobomir’ was built in the moment, with lyrics forged from real-time conversations between Jules, Thomas, and V. Santura, turning an abstract idea into a vividly realized character. ‘Fat Tony’ brought tighter drum arrangements than ever before, recorded in Germany’s Q7 Studios despite grueling heat conditions.
Rootbrain isn’t just stopping with “Mothertomb”. This EP is a stepping stone toward their next full-length album, which is already in the works.
We’re here for the long haul. The material we’re writing now is powerful, and we can’t wait to unleash it live for everyone. Jules Näveri
With “Mothertomb”, Rootbrain continues to build upon their signature fusion of brooding melodies, crushing riffs, and dynamic intensity, further establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative metal scene.
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