From their record label’s website, “Emerging from the shadows of Los Angeles in 2018, BODYBUILDER is the singular vision of mastermind Nicholas Capaldi. Weaving a tapestry of despair and dread, Capaldi utilizes a potent arsenal of synthesizers, tortured vocals, and pulverizing drum programming. “There’s No There, There” signifies a bold new chapter for BODYBUILDER. This isn’t your typical black metal fare. Imagine a relentless sonic storm, a relentless torrent of anguish howling its terrifying symphony. Distorted synthesizers paint a bleak yet atmospheric canvas, transporting the listener on a harrowing journey through nightmares escapes, and existential abysses.”

The album has six songs, and “Separating Twins” is first. There is indeed a weighted, electronic sound that paints a picture of total darkness and nightmares. The vocals are just there enough to keep the listener guessing where they are coming from, they seem to be all around you. I hear torture, and I hear pain. “Vera’s Moth” is a bit shorter, but still quite harrowing. The production is done in a way that levels everything together, so you get an even dose of frightening sounds. Although it is muted, it is perfect for the story that Nicholas is trying to paint. “Charon” has a heavy, distorted buzz running through the song, and it reminds me of the torture scene from the movie Hostel.  It consists of cold, industrial elements.

“About a Hanging, Part Two” has a steady drum presence in addition to the other harrowing elements. Much of the song has a chaotic feeling to it, almost as if everything is out of control and there are no rules. “Somebody, Something, Somewhere” continues with the themes of isolation, hopelessness, and endless torture. “Thalassa” closes the album, and it is the Greek word for “sea.” For me, the sea represents a vast body of endless pain, and one that knows no boundaries. Overall, all of the elements mentioned in the press release are true about what you will find on the album. It is indeed a harrowing journey to doors or terror and pain that you shut away years ago in your mind. Now, they are reopened once again.