I’ve spent a lot of time and put plenty of thought into trying to explain to friends and fellow music fanatics what the Japanese trio Boris is all about. They are capable of being one of the heaviest, loudest rock bands on the planet, infusing their brand of droney metal with blues rock and hardcore punk influences, but can conversely turn around to create tiny psychedelic portals, shoegazey headtrips, and bolstering experimental compositions. Therein lies the wonderment and greatness of the Tokyo-based trio of drummer Atsuo Mizuno, guitarist Wata, and guitarist/bassist/vocalist Takeshi. For over 15 years, Boris has been at it, following their own path, challenging conventions, and building a global cult. Boris’ modus operandi for boundless experimentation and creating their own mini-empire has been to steadily issue a stream of full-lengths, EPs, and singles—often collaborating with like-minded Japanese noise maestro Merzbow as well as guitarist Michio Kurihara and doom merchants SunnO)))—on a slew of different labels like Diwphalanx, Inoxia, Southern Lord, Hydra Head, and their own Fangs Anal Satan imprint, controlling every aspect of their releases right down to the artwork. The band’s cult saw wider growth in 2006 when they issued Pink (Southern Lord), a flawless stylistic paste-up of seething metal, abrasive hardcore, garagey punk, warm psychedelia, and avant guitar drone. In 2008, Boris unleashed Smile (Diwphalanx/Southern Lord) in dual Japanese and US versions, each with essentially the same tracks but rendered in uniquely different ways and running order. Smile is another dynamic record (or two) from a band that never seems to slow down…unless it’s to drone out for a few minutes. So, after I get through explaining the brilliance of Boris to friends and colleagues, I end it with, “…but you really have to see them live.” Finally the chance for many of them comes: Boris, in their power trio purity, finally bring their unmatched live set to Buffalo, with support from Torche and Wolves in the Throne Room. Miss it and miss out.

—donny kutzbach

8pm. Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main St. (852-2860 / tralfmusichall.com). $15 presale (852-5000 / ticketmaster.com) or $17 day of show.