What makes Born by D'espairsRay notable?

Born helped solidify D'espairsRay's presence in the visual kei movement, attracting attention for its unique blend of styles. The EP received positive critical reception, contributing to the band's growing fanbase and influencing subsequent artists in the genre. Released in January 2004, Born was D'espairsRay's debut EP, marking their entry into the Japanese visual kei scene. At this point, the band was still establishing their identity, moving from underground shows to wider recognition following the release of this project.

Born works well if you're into haunting melodies with heavy riffs, intense emotional outbursts throughout and short bursts of aggressive energy.

How many songs are on Born?

Born has 8 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Born

D'espairsRay · 2004

31 min · 8 tracks · industrial metal

A relentless fusion of industrial metal and emotional intensity, intertwining heavy riffs with haunting melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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BORN — The opening track sets the tone for the entire EP with its aggressive instrumentation and anthemic chorus, establishing D'espairsRay's signature sound.
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Marry of the blood — This track showcases intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts between melodic verses and explosive choruses, capturing the emotional core of the album.
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murder freaks — With its dark themes and driving rhythm, this song exemplifies the industrial influences that permeate the EP, pushing boundaries within the genre.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

Born showcases a solid blend of heavy and melodic elements, marking a strong debut in the visual kei scene.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature aggressive guitar riffs and driving percussion, establishing a high-energy opening.
The fourth track introduces a slower tempo with atmospheric elements, creating a contrast before returning to heavier sounds.
The final two tracks incorporate melodic vocals over industrial soundscapes, blending emotional intensity with the heavier instrumentation.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting melodies with heavy riffs
intense emotional outbursts throughout
short bursts of aggressive energy
quick, impactful listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

prefer gentle, soothing sounds
want lengthy, immersive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 2004, Born was D'espairsRay's debut EP, marking their entry into the Japanese visual kei scene. At this point, the band was still establishing their identity, moving from underground shows to wider recognition following the release of this project.
Stylistic neighbors: Dir En Grey· Nine Inch Nails· Korn