Concrete Winds’ ‘Nerve Butcherer’ Elevates Blackened Death Metal Energy

Concrete Winds, a Finnish two-piece band formed in 2019 after the disbandment of Vorum, unleashed their debut album, “Primitive Force,” blending death metal aggression with cryptic song titles. Their sophomore release, “Nerve Butcherer,” intensifies the energy and chaos of its predecessors, drawing comparisons to blackened death metal giants like Teitanblood and Conqueror but with a distinctively ferocious approach.

The driving force of Concrete Winds lies in drummer Mikko Josefsson’s relentless performance, anchoring the band’s assault, while vocalist Jonatan Johansson delivers fiery growls over a backdrop of truculent riffing. The band’s sound evokes a sense of frenzied claustrophobia reminiscent of bands like Sammath, particularly showcased in tracks like “Chromium Jaws” and “Noise Trepanation.”

What sets “Nerve Butcherer” apart is its dynamic songwriting, incorporating diverse meters and rhythmic structures that enhance the impact of the blistering riffs. The band’s ability to weave intricate time signatures, such as the 3/4 breaks in “Chromium Jaws” and the 7/4 riff in the title track, sets them apart from the conventional blackened death metal landscape.

However, despite its strengths, “Nerve Butcherer” falters at times due to repetitive riff patterns that rely heavily on chromatic scale progressions. The album’s overreliance on these uninspired riffs, coupled with lackluster melodies and occasional compositional missteps, detracts from the overall impact of the music.

While tracks like “Dissolvent Baptism” showcase moments of brilliance, featuring a bass-driven mid-section in 5/4 time and infectious riffs, others fall short, failing to leave a lasting impression. Concrete Winds’ potential shines through in their willingness to take risks and experiment with their sound, hinting at a promising future if they can refine their approach and inject more variety into their compositions.

Despite the album’s mixed reception, with some praising its innovation and others critiquing its repetitive nature, “Nerve Butcherer” ultimately serves as a testament to Concrete Winds’ ambition and dedication to pushing the boundaries of extreme metal. As they continue to evolve and refine their sound, the band’s trajectory towards greatness seems within reach, provided they can strike a balance between their ferocious intensity and creative experimentation.

With “Nerve Butcherer,” Concrete Winds have laid the groundwork for a promising musical journey, showcasing glimpses of brilliance amidst the chaos and cacophony of their sonic assault. As they navigate the tumultuous waters of the metal scene, the band’s ability to carve out a unique niche and captivate audiences with their unrelenting energy bodes well for their future endeavors.

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