The science fiction themed death metal pioneers return with a tremendous sounding release and although the band is called, Nocturnus AD, the music on this new album embodies everything the original Nocturnus established. In my opinion, “Paradox,” is the album that should have followed the band’s 1990 release, “The Key,” which to this day remains a cult classic in the world of old school death metal.
This Florida based act stands out from their peers by pushing the technical and conceptual boundaries. There are some bands who get stuck focusing on the same cheesy satanic imagery and anti-christian rhetoric, while Nocturnus AD explores unique lyrical themes and in the process creates a tale of horrific science fiction proportions. Just like with, “The Key,” one can hear raw blistering technical talents that form these progressive sounding landscapes of mind bending brutality.
Drummer/vocalist and original member, Mike Browning, demonstrates amazing skill behind the kit and does a solid job providing his vicious signature vocal delivery. Also, I was extremely impressed by the guitar playing on this release. Both guitarists, Demian Heftel and Belial Koblak, consistently lay down a solid foundation of explosive riffs and fluid shredding. I thought bassist Daniel Tucker did an admirable job as well maintaining a solid foundation throughout the release, especially given the complex arrangements. Keyboardist Josh Holdren does a great job adding some diverse and eerie ambience to the extreme sounding instrumental vortex. Not too many bands can effectively incorporate keyboards into their music, however, Nocturnus AD does it in a way that seems very natural.
From start to finish the band keeps you intently listening and there is never dull moment on this release. Once you hear that opening keyboard part on the first song, “Seizing the Throne,” your fate is sealed and Nocturnus AD pulls you through a technical death metal world containing lakes of endless fire. The second track. “The Bandar Sign,” begins with a high pitched keyboard composition that leads you into a gateway of intense rhythms and profound lyrical content. Once again, Mike Browning is able to captivate listeners with these unworldly tales which compliment the aggressive instrumental arrangements.
Throwing riffs and solos at listeners faster than the speed of light, “Paleolithic,” is historical hell ride of dynamic and unpredictable tempo changes. I like how the band incorporates a variety of tempo changes throughout the song, yet the music flows with great synergy. Another song that I want to mention which is also probably my favorite off of the album is, “The Return of the Lost Key.” The song contains some exceptional guitar work and Mike Browning delivers one of his most ravenous vocal performances, especially during the ending part of the song. I thought the final song, “Number 9,” was a brilliant sounding instrumental composition and features some great technical prowess and amazing atmospheric touches. You couldn’t ask for a better way to finish an album.
When I interviewed Mike Browning during my college radio show back around 2014, he stated that he had wanted to continue where Nocturnus left off when they recorded, “The Key.” I can honestly say that Nocturnus AD did just that with, “Paradox.” While some iconic death metal bands overproduce their albums and state they are going to return to their original sound, Nocturnus AD was actually able capture that same essence and sound that made their early works such coveted releases. Arguably the best album to come out this year so far and one that will hopefully inspire more young death metal artists to push themselves creatively.
Nocturnus AD "Return of the Lost Key" :
I agree that it was smart they incorporated keyboards into their sound. Maybe Mason will play keyboards in a Death Metal band in the future.
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