About this album

Sound: "Frenetic black metal erupts with chaotic energy, blending visceral aggression and darkly poetic themes."

Where they were

By the time 'Nihil' was released in 2000, Impaled Nazarene had established themselves as a prominent force within the Finnish black metal scene, following their breakout album 'Ugra-Karma' in 1993. This album marked their sixth full-length release and showcased their relentless approach to extreme music while navigating lineup changes and evolving production techniques.

Why it matters

'Nihil' is significant for its unapologetic embrace of controversial themes and aggressive sound that resonated with the underground metal community. The album's provocative cover art and lyrical content led to censorship issues in some regions, further emphasizing its impact on the genre and contributing to discussions about artistic freedom in metal.

Essential tracks

  • "Cogito Ergo Sum" — The opening track sets a blistering pace with rapid-fire drumming and harsh vocals, encapsulating the album's chaotic essence.
  • "Nothing Is Sacred" — This track stands out for its stark critique of religious dogma, merging raw aggression with poignant social commentary.
  • "Nihil" — 'Nihil' serves as the title track and encapsulates the album's overarching themes of nihilism and existential despair through dark melodies and intense instrumentation.

Release Date

June 16, 2000

Artist Origin

Finland

Tracklist

  1. 1 Cogito Ergo Sum 2:10
  2. 2 Human-Proof 4:38
  3. 3 Wrath of the Goat 1:22
  4. 4 Angel Rectums Still Bleed - The Sequel 2:42
  5. 5 Post Eclipse Era 4:22
  6. 6 Nothing Is Sacred 2:19
  7. 7 Zero Tolerance 1:52
  8. 8 Assault the Weak 3:49
  9. 9 How the Laughter Died 4:07
  10. 10 Nihil 4:55