Album Review: Nuclear Winter – Greystone (MMD Records)

After the success of his previous EP “Stormscapes” Zimbabwean one-man metal band Nuclear Winter is set to unleash “Greystone” on May 21st 2021.

Band mastermind Gary Stautmeister commented:

I’m very happy to have completed this new album titled Greystone. I was aiming to produce something heavy but also more electronic than my previous EP. It was quite challenging mix-wise because each song uses a slightly different sound on the drums/bass/guitars, but I feel the overall production is an improvement from my previous work, and the songs are now hopefully more distinct from each other. I especially like Corridor of Shells – which is about a battle in which the surrendering army brings shame to their country.

We we’re very impressed with Stormscapes last year so it’s with much excitement that we dive into Nuclear Winter’s new record. A 9-track album that kicks into a high gear from the start. Deathy riffing, frenetic drums and bass but layered with ethereal vocals that switch to death-infused fury in an instant. The Wastelands is an excellent start and the high bar is set and met by the following Stygian Awakening. The rapid-fire drum beat and unusual effects adding a wraith-like vibe to something that is undoubtedly heaviness personified.

The Harvest Moon and Orwellian Future stay on the path, both tracks having that blend of punchy heaviness and melodic effects. However, it’s the groovier metal direction set out by Corridor of Shells and the dissimulated vocals that retakes hold. At this stage, you can almost draw comparisons to Devin Townsend with these vocals.

Strength to strength, durable and unyielding; The Wavering Shadows, Hidden Shrine and Graveyard Sculpture is Nuclear Blast solidifying what should be clear by now. Which is that Gary Stautmeister is very talented and is the epitome of that question… this is just one person!? The synthy middle track of that bunch is sold gold stuff.

Which brings us to the unfortunate end. Not because it ends poorly but because that it ends. The Failing Dawn wrapping things up in head-banging and power-induced style. Nuclear Winter once again blending to perfection that combination of deathy guitar work, the two vocal styles, the constant battering by the percussion and of course, the weird but always entertaining synth effects.

A brilliant release.

Nuclear Winter – Greystone Full Track Listing:

1. The Wastelands
2. Stygian Awakening
3. The Harvest Moon
4. Orwellian Future
5. Corridor of Shells
6. The Wavering Shadows
7. Hidden Shrine
8. Graveyard Sculpture
9. The Failing Dawn

Links

Bandcamp | Facebook