Nifelheim
Devil's Force
[Necropolis]


Yes, this is the new full length Nifelheim CD. Although the term "full-length" is used loosely; the CD runs for a mere thirty minutes. No matter though, what is the music like? For the most part, it's PURE old-style Satanic evil black/thrashing destructive metal. And very good at that! The production on this release really shines compared to the first CD, technical skills have been developed nicely, and most of the songs sound very individual. Unlike the first CD of course.

The major Bathory influence is somewhat diluted this time around. Rather, Nifelheim go for a more speed metal feel, filled with huge and impressive riffs. As the back of the promo says: "…this time showcasing a strong Brazilian influence". And that is for the most part true, since some old Sarcofago really sticks out in some of the sections displayed here. Some of the songs, such as the fine "The Final Slaughter" are wonderfully morbid sounding, but also showcase an excellent headbanging appeal. A distant sounding riff combined with quality drum work (the drum sound here is excellent!) leads into a total old school riff, and then into some fairly old-style death metal sounding soloing. Excellent!

Another bonus is the guitar sound. As a friend pointed out, it's that "cranked Marshall" sound without much use of distortion. This creates a more violent and less "fuzzy" feel…. nicely adds to the thrashing aura they've attempted to create here. Overall, an excellent fucking release. The individual feel of each song makes it even better than the first great CD. And the simple fact that they succeed in creating real old style metal (unlike 90% of the shite old school bands today) is another bonus. Worth picking up.


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