JAODAE is an Instrumental Metal band from Toronto, Ontario. "Nest of Veins" has nine songs, and "Lobotomite" is the first. The Progressive stylings are unique and there are a lot of stop-and-start tactics in the music. Just when you think things are somewhat normal, odd sax and trumpet notes spring forth, not following any specific melody line. There are no vocals, and I feel like I have stepped into the twilight zone. "Prognostications" is a little more linear in terms of the sound, but soon follows an artistic shifting of the meter. I suppose now is a good time to declare that this is instrumental music.

"The Arsonist Has a Name" is a bit more mysterious, at first. Eerie notes usher in some steadier ones, but the landscape if choppy and turbulent. It smooths out a bit from there, along with some nice melodies, but the dark tones remain behind. The title track is heavier in scope and has some experimental components. The more ambient moments are nice, rounded, and mellow. It segues into "Bod Body," where the weight accents continue. Some nice melodies are also developed among the sterile rhythms, but they are fleeting for the most part. "Agafia" is a short, two-minute track with melancholy and tender tones. This is a song where they lie back a bit and just let things happen.

"Cantiga 166" rolls in with a swag of sorts...a southern style riff that speaks of hot days and warm nights. It quickly transitions to a heavier and more accented set of riffs. "The Sirens of Titan" is a shorter song with a more linear approach. The intro is melodic and the guitar work that follows is also catchy but choppy again. Some dissonant tones mix in, and the song takes a step into the shadows. The lengthy "Tree of Tenere" closes the album. It begins with a roar that diminishes to smooth but tense tones. The main riff is powerful, and commanding. Take some time and let the song develop a bit, and you won't be disappointed. It's the best song on the album and sports a few different approaches.

Overall, this was a solid album that had some strong points. Much of the music was choppy and accentuated but when they let some melody in, it was nice. It was obvious that they didn't want the melody to take over too much but without vocals, it was also a bit one-dimensional. Instrumental music can be just as dynamic as music with vocals...the band just needs to find a way to work in some other ingredients and sounds.