BARREN WOMB shares behind-the-scenes documentary on fifth album and its creation
Norwegian noise rock outfit Barren Womb recently unveiled a new short film delving into the chaotic journey of creating their fifth studio album, Chemical Tardigrade. The 13-minute documentary, directed by Carl Christian Lein Størmer of IGH, offers an intimate and raw look at the duo’s creative process, showcasing their unfiltered approach to music making.
The film reaches its culmination with the unveiling of the music video for “Squat Walker,” a song from Chemical Tardigrade that is deeply rooted in the anarchist community of Svartlamon in Trondheim. Known for its staunch resistance to gentrification and radical ideologies, Svartlamon plays a pivotal role in the video. Størmer elaborates on the concept behind the video, highlighting it as a depiction of human defiance against capitalist forces encroaching on the Svartlamon area, with the main protagonist standing firm in the face of adversity. The spirit of rebellion portrayed in Barren Womb’s music perfectly captures the essence of resistance that defines the community of Svartlamon.
Formed in 2011, Barren Womb, comprising Timo Silvola and Tony Gonzalez, have carved out a niche for themselves with their frenetic live performances, minimalist noise rock arrangements, and a distinctively dry sense of humor. Having released four albums prior to Chemical Tardigrade, including the acclaimed 2020 record Lizard Lounge, the duo has established a reputation for their relentless energy and self-aware approach to their craft. With a string of performances across Europe and the U.S. alongside renowned acts like Entombed A.D., Voivod, and Nomeansno, they have consistently delivered a potent mix of aggression and introspection.
Released in 2024 on Fucking North Pole Records/Blues For The Red Sun, Chemical Tardigrade represents a culmination of Barren Womb’s musical evolution. The album showcases a juxtaposition of aggression and melody, drawing influences from their side projects Velcro Dog and Twin Serpent to add layers of emotional depth to their sound. Tracks like “Bug Out Bag,” “Campfire Chemist,” and the album closer “Dung Lung” exhibit a newfound maturity in their songwriting, blending absurdity with introspection.
The album retains Barren Womb’s trademark wit and intensity, evident in tracks like “D-Beatles,” “Bachelor of Puppets,” and “High Fructose Napalm Syrup.” The duo’s dual vocals intertwine over abrasive riffs and abrupt transitions, addressing themes of escapism, societal collapse, and resilience. Recorded and mixed by Eirik Øien at Fjøset Lydstudio and mastered by Alan Douches, Chemical Tardigrade embraces the band’s raw, unpolished aesthetic, with subtle electronic elements courtesy of Øien adding depth to their sound palette.
The documentary captures the dynamic interplay between Timo and Tony, showcasing their offbeat humor and unscripted interactions. Like their music, the film eschews glamour for authenticity, highlighting the instinctive nature of their creative process. By linking their art to real-world resistance movements in Svartlamon, Barren Womb’s work takes on a more profound significance, embodying a spirit of defiance and sincerity that resonates with audiences.
Barren Womb’s unique blend of noise rock, humor, and social commentary continues to captivate listeners, cementing their place as pioneers in the underground music scene. Through their music and visuals, they craft a world that is abrasive, unapologetic, and undeniably authentic, resonating with fans who appreciate raw, unfiltered artistry.