When you look in the dictionary under N you will invariably come across NIHLISM and you will see that it has two definitions. The first is "the rejection of all religious and moral principles, in the belief that life is meaningless". The second, less commonly quoted and more appropriate I believe is "A 5-piece band that makes you reject all religious and moral principles, in the belief that brutal music is life"

Started 11 years ago in 2009, NIHLISM have grown over time releasing a demo in 2011, a split album with DEHUMAIZE in 2014 and their first full length studio album in 2016. They returned at the end of 2019 to release "Apocalyptic Fate" and I think that the Heavy Metal community will be glad that they did.

When you first see this record, one will instantly be struck by the artwork. With references to ancient civilisations and their temples, plus what appears to be the expansion of an individual's mind. The art and the message it conveys in stark contrast with one another is incredibly done in its own right.

We start the album with "Slaves Of The Sacred Rites", Instantly I was struck by the ambience created in the introduction alone. This is followed up with some very stereotypical Death Metal patterns throughout the track. To me, in a world where everyone is trying to bring their own hook to the genres, it is so refreshing to find a band that are simply staying true to the original, time tested style.

The next track that I turn my attention to is "RIP", and here, although the music of the song remains uncompromisingly fast and upbeat. Both Séb S and Séb G demonstrate how the entire pace of a song can be controlled by the vocals and drum line alone. Also hidden in the chaos and brutality of this track is an impressive breakdown and solo that just goes to show the versatility of the group.

Next we come to "Fateful Rite" which has an introduction in stark contrast to the rest of the album. With a clean guitar bringing us into the song, which when it kicks in we are subjected to another impressive solo. Séb P and Jules take a bow both of you. The track continues with skillful changes to the tempo and with small guitar picks accenting over the main vocal track we again have a strong demonstration of the bands skill.

Finally, we come to "A Bunch Of Bones". The track opens with a fast paced and relentless riff that has become a staple part of NIHLISM's songs. This particular song is again enhanced by perfectly placed tempo changes and a particularly excellent guitar solo. To me this track just showcases the skill of all the band members as they come together to almost seemingly create a flawless song. This is my pick of the album.

Overall, "Apocalyptic Fate" is very impressive. But I must say that I would almost expect that from a band to have been around for the time NIHLISM has. I hope it won't be another three years before we are again graced with another album release, as I think they could capitalise on the success of this album and continue to grow.