Nightmarer’s sophomore album, “Deformity Adrift,” is a punishing and rewarding journey into the abyss of dissonant death metal. Clocking in at a lean 32 minutes, the album wastes no time in assaulting the listener with a relentless barrage of atonal riffs, pummeling drums, and guttural vocals.
A Brutal Symphony of Dissonance
From the opening track, “Brutalist Imperator,” it’s clear Nightmarer isn’t interested in subtlety. The song explodes with a complex web of dissonant chords, courtesy of guitarists Keith Merrow and Arne Jensen. Drummer Jari Suopajärvi lays down a punishing foundation, while vocalist Mattiau Johannesson spews forth inhuman growls that perfectly complement the music’s bleak atmosphere.
Nightmarer’s brilliance lies in their ability to weave moments of melody and groove into the aural assault. Tracks like “Hammer of Desolation” showcase the band’s knack for crafting memorable riffs amidst the sonic chaos. The mid-tempo section of “Throe of Illicit Withdrawal” injects a welcome dose of doom-laden atmosphere, proving that brutality can coexist with emotional depth.
Evolution and Refinement
Compared to their debut album, “Cacophony of Terror,” “Deformity Adrift” exhibits a clear evolution in songwriting. The band has tightened their compositions, striking a balance between technical prowess and memorability. The influence of bands like Ulcerate and Meshuggah is evident, but Nightmarer manages to carve their own sonic niche.
Interludes of Uneasy Calm
The album is not without its moments of respite. Tracks like “Fractured Hourglass” and “Whispers Through Decay” offer brief interludes of unsettling ambience, providing a chance to catch one’s breath before the sonic onslaught resumes.
A Must-Listen for Disso-Death Enthusiasts
“Deformity Adrift” is not for the faint of heart. It’s a challenging and demanding listen, but one that rewards repeated listens. For fans of dissonant death metal, this album is a must-have. Nightmarer has crafted a brutal masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of the genre and leaves a lasting impression.
Highlights:
- “Brutalist Imperator” – A bludgeoning opening track that sets the tone for the album.
- “Hammer of Desolation” – A standout track with a killer riff and a punishing groove.
- “Throe of Illicit Withdrawal” – Showcases the band’s ability to blend brutality with atmosphere.
Overall Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Recommendation: Highly recommended for fans of dissonant death metal, Ulcerate, Meshuggah, and extreme music in general.
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