From their EPK, “NASTERGAL is an international black metal band that hails from the four corners of the world. The music draws its inspiration from a variety of extreme metal bands. Now, they proudly present a unique take on the Black Metal genre with a unique sound. The album, “The Untold War” continues from where the “Solitude” EP left off. It explores the dark world of self realization and war in the mind of Zarathustra as he struggles to validate himself in a world filled with deceit and ignorance. The underlying argument is that all human values are created by humans, rather than gods, or nature, or some underlying fundamental reality. “The Untold War” is heavily influenced by “Thus Spoke Zarathustra”, one of Friedrich Nietzsche's greatest works. It attempts to convey the dark secrets we all hold so dear to our hearts, the war within ourselves we never share with others.”

“Brothers in War” is the first song, and what comes out of the gates is a thick, energetic Black Metal sound with blast beat drumming, vocal screams, and overgrown guitar parts. The occasional gutturals also give the music a dangerous edge. “The Stillest Hour” is nothing but. It explodes out of the gates and leaves a burning trail of fire and smoke behind it. “Involuntary Bliss” is the first song that breathes…a bit…at least in the opening. From there however, it is pedal to the metal and pushed all the way to the floor for the duration of the ride. “The Underworld” is an exploration of just that…the seedy, mysterious and shadowy place that your parent’s told you never to explore. The further you go, the more harrowing the experience is.

“My Wandering Soul” is another song that sounds like a rabid dog going straight for the throat of its victim. The guitars and drums alone keep a buzzing presence in the music, which also has some classical chord progressions. “The Vision” is another burner and the album shows no signs of slowing down. Instead, the sound reins down like a thousand fists pummeling your skull. I advise keeping your head down and not looking up. “Immaculate Perception” hears the blistering pace continue even further. For me, it’s like a hot rocket ride through space and time, passing galaxies as if they were just speedbumps along the way. The bass work is excellent in this song also.

“The Three Evils” closes the album, and you guessed it, there is no slowing down. Overall, you have to give props for a band that shares a singular vision on the album, as well as an uncompromising energy, and the will to dominate. These are the three things that come through strongest for me, in addition to their strong musicianship.