Tag Archives: Derek Rix

Rivers of Nihil – Monarchy

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rivers of nihil monarchy album cover 2015

Rivers of Nihil have unleashed their sophomore effort, Monarchy (Metal Blade), onto the metal world. What an impact it will make, noticed or not. Monarchy wastes no time and neither will I. This could be one of the best metal albums released this year. Rather than fifty minutes of a constant snare and uninspiring distorted low tuned guitars Rivers of Nihil have really focused on expanding like many death metal acts today. Adding more atmosphere and a dynamic to keep a hold of you. As you continue to listen to Monarchy it evolves and shows you all the cards in its hand.

Kicking off with ‘Heirless’ expectations are high when even the instrumental introduction is impressive. A menacing and brooding build-up that hurtles you into ‘Perpetual Growth Machine’. Strong death metal in the beginning with a steady evolution as you inch closer to the five minute mark. Background ambiance help give it a real atmosphere and more powerful vibe. Closer to the end things get a bit more melodic teasing you that this won‘t be your usual death metal album. Much like ‘Perpetual Growth Machine’, Monarchy as a whole expands its boundaries as you continue closer to the end.

The first several tracks are death metal but at times dabble more in melodic death metal. There are moments where it will even be a bit more jazzy similar to prog. Once you hit track number eight, ‘Terrestria II: Thrive’, the more melodic side of Rivers of Nihil gets into the driver’s seat. ‘Terrestria II: Thrive’ really showing off their talents with multiple genres.

Overall Monarchy is a very impressive record. After a couple listens I can safely say this album will make my top ten metal album releases this year. Rivers of Nihil should be much larger than they are. They deserve your attention.

8.5/10

DEREK RIX


Hibria – Hibria

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Hibria self titled album cover 2015

 

Brazil’s Hibria have released their new self-titled album from Test Your Metal Records, fifth in their discography. After having experimenting with their sound with their past release Hibria have returned more to their expected power metal influence though we are treated to heavy grit at times. Iuri Sanson’s soaring vocals backed up by technical guitar solos and drumming really help Hibria stand up against many of the other power metal bands through out the world. Songs such as the first track, ‘Pain’, are evidence of them looking to stand out even more. Much like your average heavy/power metal song until you get past the shredding guitar solo. The guitar work gets a bit more of a groove as it is then accompanied by what sounds like saxophones and trumpets. Unexpected and enjoyable. A risk that definitely paid off.

Abel Carmargo and Renato Osorio’s guitar work help the album as a whole grab the listener’s attention. No shortage of great riffs and technical solos. Whether it‘s high flying power metal or a more aggressive pounding, these two don‘t disappoint. ‘Tightrope’ has just flashes of a thrash vibe to it showing Hibria can definitely play material more aggressive. ‘Legacy’ is purely to showcase their ability to be a pure headbanger. The problem is I find the track to be the most underwhelming on the album. Especially Iuri Sanson‘s attempt at harsh vocals. Overall a disappointing track.

It’s a solid album. I also enjoyed their risk of incorporating the use of saxophones and trumpets during a guitar solo, albeit it felt a bit silly. It may be a bit unique, but not unique enough from other heavy/power metal acts.

 

6.5/10

DEREK RIX


Klogr – Make Your Stand EP

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Kloger Make Your Stand EP cover 2015

Italian-American group Klogr have release their new EP Make Your Stand, and they really set expectations high on how to release an EP. It’s mostly due to the fact that along with the three brand new tracks, Make Your Stand also offers ten tracks from their past releases that was recorded live. It’s refreshing to see an EP that clocks in nearly at an hour. A live album and EP packed into one. Now how is the music?

 

Klogr play a form of alternative metal, walking along the thin line between rock and heavy metal. They remind me of the sound you can expect from a project involving Mark Tremonti, best example being Alter Bridge. You’ll definitely understand where I’m coming from once you hear the opening track ‘Breaking Down’. At first it sounds a bit thrashy, then switches to a much more melodic groove to compliment Rusty’s clear vocals. Like clockwork the song continues to switch between the two. The second track ‘Make Your Stand’ is much like the first with more of an alternative metal riff than thrash. The third and final new track ‘Breathing Heart’ has much more emotion and atmosphere. Could call it the token power ballad of the album.

I will say with the live portion of the album I have a nitpicky critique. It could translate well when you see them live in person, but listening to the EP there where moments where it didn’t feel live. The performance sounds so well polished, that at times it doesn’t even feel or sound like it was recorded live. I’m not much of a fan of alternative metal. I do however agree that Klogr are great at what they do, and if you enjoy alternative metal acts such as Alter Bridge, definitely give this band a shot.

6.5/10

DEREK RIX