Nile
Ithyphallic

THE REVIEW

The first album after changing labels is always difficult. I believe this was also the case for Nile, whom I’ve followed since the beginning of their recording career, as they immediately showcased evident distinctive qualities, primarily for the concept derived from the history of ancient Egypt and then for how those settings were replicated in the tracks.

I have always appreciated the fact that, even though they never shied away from creating a powerful and majestic sound within the death metal sphere, they managed to give it considerable variety and enriched it with structural dynamics that made them almost unique. With four works released through Relapse, they demonstrated that the combination of technique and brutality, supported by original and creative ideas, still allows for the production of sounds capable of challenging and impressing. I’m not aware of the reasons why their collaboration with the label ended, but now we find them signed with Nuclear Blast and the impression from listening to "Ithyphallic" is that they tried to consolidate their position while awaiting future developments, as if not wanting to disappoint the expectations of the new employer, but at the same time freezing the evolutionary process. This results in ten tracks that end up being even more monolithic and "mean" than what they had made us hear so far, but by doing so, losing that added value from a refined management of nuances, details, and particulars.

On the other hand, they further improved the technical/instrumental/vocal aspect and allow the tracks to be suffused with dark and sinister atmospheres (almost reminiscent of Morbid Angel) and paced or slowed breaks (never limited to linear solutions) that definitely make them interesting. As an additional note, I must highlight how "Ithyphallic" is enriched by an exceptional song, "Even The Gods Must Die", which serves to close the ceremonial through gloomy settings, granitic sounds, and pure concentrated nastiness.

Ultimately, we can say that Nile has partially moved away from their oldest roots to focus on creating a work more aligned with traditional death canons, but for this reason less rich in inventiveness, though indisputably perfect.

A bit too "normal," hence I deduct a point...!