The latest release from Detroit death metal band The Black Dahlia Murder is sure to please fans, and will most certainly broaden their audience. Nocturnal is a shorter album in comparison to their previous releases, just over thirty minutes long, but it makes up for it’s brevity with intensity. From the first track onward the band serves up their form of melodic death metal. The second track, “What A Horrible Night To Have A Curse,” exemplifies their heavier side. The lyrical content throughout the record is filled with beautifully phrased musings on death, human mortality, and violence. “Virally Yours,” the third track on the album, showcases Trevor Strnad’s use of complex rhythm and range in his vocals. The title track illustrates the bands black metal influences with a much more melodic approach to the guitar work. “Climactic Degradation” has some of Strnad’s darker lyrics, and shows excellent use of layering the screams with the growls. This album is a continuance of what the band started on its previous release, Miasma.
They seem to grow darker and heavier with each release, and are solidifying themselves in the death metal scene. The musicianship continues to improve with this album. The solos take a few more chances, the rhythms a touch more complex. Nocturnal is a great album, and will leave you feeling bruised and beaten.
