Since the mid-90s, Nocturnal Breed has been Norway’s most ferocious and charming black thrash metal band. The band has now reached their seventh release, and there’s no sign that their aggression and speed have mellowed over the years. Quite the opposite… this might be their most uncompromising album to date. It sounds dirty and devilish, perhaps a bit too dirty for most. Particularly, the production might turn many away. In fact, this album sounds considerably more lo-fi than the band’s recent releases. Especially S. A. Destroyer’s vocals are more piercing and abrasive than before. So, it wouldn’t surprise me if they receive some negative comments about that.
Truth be told, “Carry The Beast” took several spins to click. But when it does, it clicks really well. Nocturnal Breed is also unafraid to show their inspirations, and a track like “Knights Of Denim” is clearly inspired by the NWOBHM wave, while “I Ain’t Marching No More” can’t be anything but Motörhead-influenced. Much has happened since their last release, with both guitarists departing. Returning on guitar is Axeman I. Maztor, who had been the band’s guitarist in two previous periods, and the band now operates as a trio. As long as S. A. Destroyer continues to steer the ship as he always has, and his right-hand man, drummer Tex Terror, is in place, it sounds like Nocturnal Breed as much as you could want.
Released by Dark Essence Records.
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