ALBUM REVIEW: Neaera – Neaera

Some may consider melodic death metal to have already been perfected back in the 90’s with the likes of AT THE GATES and IN FLAMES leading the charge. One band who continued to fly the flag beyond this period was German outfit NEAERA who staked their claim with chart placings and a string of festival appearances in their tenure. Sadly as they progressed they felt their journey had ran its course and called it a day in 2015. With a little time to reflect and rekindle their ambition they announced their much anticipated return with their first album in five years entitled Neaera which is available now via Metal Blade Records. Will this release show they still have what it takes?

The tense, pulsing nature of intro track (Un)drowned neatly tees up the demonic riffing of Catalyst. The screams and pounding drum work are equally as hellish as they boisterously charge their way into the foreground. False Shepherds displays some swift, clinical shredding alongside some potent blastbeats for good measure. A doom ridden tone plays the lead role but some instances of melody begin to seep in as it progresses.

Resurrection Of The Wrath harbours the signature melodic death metal song structure combining guttural growls and some interesting emotive transitions to keep you on your toes as Carriers injects further fast paced fury into the mix. Rapid fire drumming and evil laced riffing are the stars of the show here. Rid The Earth Of The Human Virus showcases slabs of groove ridden guitar work meshed with an addictive, racing tempo. Sunset of Mankind treads a similar path with a methodical, stomping pace and sludgy, hammer blows for riffs. The track delves into the realms of black metal for a short intense shock to the system.

Lifeless provides one of the highlights of this release like a blast beat driven bolt of lightning. The underlying melodies that lurk beneath the carnage help elevate this track above what has come before it. Eruption in Reverse returns to the doomy depths as visceral screams run riot as Torchbearer continues the pummelling assault. Deathless ebbs and flows between bludgeoning and subtle melodic lead work to ensure that the energy levels are maintained until the very end.

Whilst the quality is still of a high calibre this release begins to become a bit of a one trick pony. It is difficult to distinguish the tracks from their counterparts as they begin to blur into one and start to lose their magic. NEAERA do exhibit sparks of brilliance, particularly in the segments which step away from the predictable melodic death metal structure. Admittedly they seem to be few and far between but when they hit you they are like a wake up call from a sledgehammer. Fans of their earlier material may look at this release more favourably but in this day and age when everyone is pushing the boundaries of their sound the tried and tested method isn’t always the most beneficial way forward.

Rating: 7/10

Neaera is out now via Metal Blade Records.

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