Album Review: Al-Namrood – Wala’at (Shaytan Productions)

Al-Namrood is a Saudi Arabian black metal band whose name refers to “Nimrod”, a Babylonian king. The name was chosen as a form of defiance against religion. The members are anonymous since their identification could lead to punishment of death from Saudi Arabian authorities. Now Al-Namrood are celebrating 12 years of resistance with their eighth full-length “Wala’at” out on the 22nd June 2020.

People love to complain about their liberties being taken away and their lack of freedom in some of the most free nations on Earth. Nowhere is this more prominent then in the Western world so the next time someone complains to you that their freedom is being taken away, maybe point them in the direction of Al-Namrood. A band that has to stay anonymous as they could be killed by their state for the music they play.

It’s incredible and certainly adds some extra impact to the what we hear on Wala’at. A lovely and unforgiving slab of Middle-Eastern black metal. Two worlds coming together in a glorious clash of styles that is pretty damn unforgettable.

Forged in fire and dripping in excessive desperation, Sahra Yaesa, Tabgia and Kail Be Mekialain shows off the raw talent that Al-Namrood possess. Talent that is expelled through the medium of noisy metal and complimented by melodious elements.

Whereas Al Shareef Al Muhan, Fasique and Aar Al Estibad hammer away at the senses and delivers a masterclass of ferocity that is impressively unique sounding. The quality of the vocal style, fiery and rage-fulled can’t be understated.

There’s no halting this momentum and Al-Namrood are moving at a hell of a speed. Alhallaj, Wahum Althaat and Alqaum adding the final stamp that marks this as one of the best extreme releases of 2020.

Al-Namrood – Wala’at Full Track Listing:

1. Al Hirah
2. Sahra Yaesa
3. Tabqia
4. Kail Be Mekialain
5. Al Shareef Al Muhan
6. Fasique
7. Aar Al Estibad
8. Alhallaj
9. Wahum Althaat
10. Alqaum

Links

Facebook | Bandcamp