Review
The Underworld Awaits Us All by Nile is a brutal testament to the band’s mastery of death metal, blending their signature themes of ancient Egyptian mythology with intricate technical compositions. Released on August 23, 2024, through Napalm Records, this album is as ferocious as it is elaborate, showcasing Karl Sanders and company pushing boundaries with relentless precision. With songs like “Stelae of Vultures” and “Under the Curse of the One God,” the band unleashes relentless riffs and dissonant chords, accompanied by the thunderous drumming of George Kollias. This record doesn’t let up, layering guttural growls, blistering guitar solos, and haunting choral elements that make each track feel like a descent into mythological depths.
One of the album’s most impressive aspects is its blend of brutal technicality and dark atmosphere. Tracks like “Naqada II Enter the Golden Age” and “The Pentagrammathion of Nephren-Ka” highlight Nile’s ability to create cinematic soundscapes within a death metal framework, drawing on both Egyptian and Mesopotamian influences. The haunting choirs and eerie atmospherics add a level of depth and immersion, creating an almost ritualistic experience.
The title track, “The Underworld Awaits Us All,” is a powerful closer, stretching over eight minutes of complex rhythms, rapid pacing, and intricate riffs that give fans everything they expect from Nile—intensity, ferocity, and technical brilliance. The album is undoubtedly a monumental release, solidifying Nile’s legendary status while delivering fresh elements that show they’re still evolving.
The Underworld Awaits Us All is a relentless, darkly immersive experience that feels like a journey through ancient myths and modern metal. For those ready to dive deep, this album is a stunning testament to Nile’s power and precision in the genre. - Damon
