RAGE NUCLÉAIRE – Black Storm of Violence

Next up is the sophomore full-length release from Quebec four-piece Rage Nucleaire. Persons of interest include Lord Worm from Cryptopsy and uber drummer Fred Widigs (sometimes of Marduk) and more. The sound is black metal with a hint of death – reminiscent of Anaal Nathrakh, with Fred’s work recalling Marduk at times. I was never a fan of Worm in Cryptopsy, but he does a good job here, hissing and snarling his way through the eight tracks. As you might guess the drum work on this record is absolutely epic. At speed and on the slower passages Mr Widig is a revelation behind the kit.

The songs all work well, comprising the ‘rage’ and ‘storm’ of the band’s name and title. Yes, at times this is brutal stuff, but there are also slower parts and even the odd catchy chorus here and there, so top marks for variety. Keyboards are used in places, but more for bombast and effect than to drive a melody. Each song has something unique that hooks the listener, meaning you welcome each track as it comes around and the re-listen value of the record is increased. Definitely recommended if you like something extreme but not too one dimensional.

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