The Black Dahlia Murder

In 2005, when they released Miasma, the Black Dahlia Murder demonstrated their prowess as a harmonised, shrewd black metal band. Four years later, they have created an even more abhorrent beast. With more venom than a black mamba, BDM are here for the slaughter. They start heavy as fuck and don’t look back until it’s over. Not for one second does Nocturnal falter in its musical construction. This Detroit, MI five-piece have constructed a distinct sound that’s low, ruthless and abrasive. "Climatic Degradation” demonstrates their ferocity — the guitars, drums and vocals all work together to create a cavernously heavy sound filled with speed and a proper thrash take on black metal. Each guitar solo adds that extra metallic punch for more enjoyment. The defining aspect of this album comes from drummer Pierre Langlois, whose double bass patterns at high tempos are only outdone by doubling the speed for short, insane bursts. "Nocturnal,” "Verbally Yours” and "Warborn” are the high points but there aren’t any lows. The guitar work is constantly complex, fast and forceful while always paying homage to their Scandinavian influences. Nocturnal takes about 34 minutes of your life but you might want to dedicate a few more hours.