After three decades of reshaping the landscape of technical death metal, Nile returns with The Underworld Awaits Us All, their 10th studio album, released on August 23, 2024. This record further solidifies Nile’s reputation for blending blistering technicality, ancient Egyptian themes, and atmospheric depth. While the album does not stray far from their established formula, it exemplifies their ability to innovate within a familiar framework.
From its opening moments, The Underworld Awaits Us All demonstrates why Nile remains a pillar of the genre. The opener, Stelae of Vultures, sets the tone with relentless, chaotic riffs paired with the hypnotic precision of George Kollias’s drumming. The complexity of the arrangements, balanced with a sense of dread and grandeur, captures the ominous aura of ancient Egyptian mythology.
Thematically, the album delves deep into visions of the afterlife, vengeance, and divine retribution. Tracks such as Overlords of the Black Earth and To Strike With Secret Fang are ferocious yet intricate, presenting an overwhelming barrage of sound that demands repeated listens to fully unravel. Meanwhile, the atmospheric interludes scattered throughout the album provide moments of respite, though they never detract from the suffocating intensity that dominates the record.
The dual epics—True Gods of the Desert and the title track—are standout moments that highlight the band’s grander ambitions. Clocking in at over seven and nine minutes respectively, these songs showcase Nile’s skill at crafting sprawling compositions that interweave blistering riffs with haunting melodies. However, their extended lengths may challenge listeners, as they delve into more progressive territories while maintaining the band’s brutal edge.
Nile The Underworld Awaits Us All Tracklisting
01. Stelae Of Vultures
02. Chapter For Not Being Hung Upside Down On A Stake In The Underworld And Made To Eat Feces By The Four Apes
03. To Strike With Secret Fang
04. Naqada II Enter The Golden Age
05. The Pentagrammathion Of Nephren-Ka
06. Overlords Of The Black Earth
07. Under The Curse Of The One God
08. Doctrine Of Last Things
09. True Gods Of The Desert
10. The Underworld Awaits Us All
11. Lament For The Destruction Of Time
Instrumentally, the album remains a masterclass in musicianship. Karl Sanders continues to lead the charge with his intricate guitar work, supported by Brian Kingsland and Zach Jeter, whose contributions add a layer of depth to the band’s sound. Kollias’s drumming, as expected, is a technical marvel, driving the album forward with unrelenting ferocity.
The Underworld Awaits Us All is both a celebration of Nile’s legacy and a testament to their continued evolution. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it refines and elevates their signature style, delivering an experience that is both immersive and punishing. For long-time fans and newcomers alike, this album is a reminder of why Nile remains a cornerstone of extreme metal.
This latest chapter in Nile’s journey is an essential listen for anyone drawn to the intersection of brutality and technical brilliance.
