Nexus - The Paradise Complex (2009)

Nexus is an Australian band performing progressive death metal, with an emphasis on progressive. The thin, hectic guitar work reminds me of a band like Zero Hour, but placed within a heavier framework. Mid to late period Death would be a good starting point, but the music created on The Paradise Complex is far more intensified, with a lot of double bass driven rhythms and trapeze artist bursts of melody.

Lyrically the band narrates a complex fantastical/pseudo-science reality which is long on prose and philosophy and short on camp. A cosmic fiction that matches well with their harrying rhythmic explorations. The vocals are performed by the drummer, a melodic death snarl with some grunts mixed in. I'd be impressed if he was multitasking this at live performances, but then the drums, bass and guitars are the true spotlights of this band, rendering the vocals almost obsolete (aside from the lyrical insight into the Nexus storyline). Though the first few tracks are loaded with acrobatic riffing, it took until "Paradise Complex II: The Reasoning" before I found a piece I could sink my teeth into, with its onslaught of fusion dynamics and shifts from dual melodies to the band's thrashing, noodling core. "The War of Thought" also features some of the better moments, from its tranquil introduction to the raging metal climax.

I feel Nexus would hold a natural attraction for fans of Sensory artists like Spiral Architect or Zero Hour. Perhaps also Cynic or Atheist. The guitar tones are very spastic and thin blooded, but every instrument is audible, including the lackluster vocals. At this point, the strength of the band lies in their athletic musical proficiency, and they wisely keep most of the tracks on the shorter side, so they don't drift off into wanking. Clearly the band has some interesting ideas and an endless wealth of complex riffs, which they will probably develop for the future.

Highlights: Paradise Complex II The Reasoning, The War of Thought

Verdict: Win [7/10]

http://www.myspace.com/nexusmetal