Ithyphallic (2007) - Nile


Released on July 17, 2007, Ithyphallic is the fifth studio album by American technical death metal band Nile. Known for their unique blend of brutal death metal with ancient Egyptian themes, the album sees the band pushing their intricate compositions and thematic storytelling to new heights. This release was their first with Nuclear Blast Records, marking a pivotal moment in their career.

Tracklist:

  1. What Can Be Safely Written – 8:15
  2. As He Creates, So He Destroys – 4:36
  3. Ithyphallic – 4:40
  4. Papyrus Containing the Spell to Preserve Its Possessor Against Attacks from He Who Is in the Water – 2:57
  5. Eat of the Dead – 6:29
  6. Laying Fire Upon Apep – 3:25
  7. The Essential Salts – 3:51
  8. The Infinity of Stone – 2:04
  9. The Language of the Shadows – 3:30
  10. Even the Gods Must Die – 10:01

Ithyphallic continues Nile’s tradition of combining technical death metal with themes of ancient history, mythology, and religion. The album title references a term used in ancient Greek to describe phallic art or imagery, tying into the album's themes of power and creation.

The opener, "What Can Be Safely Written," is an epic track filled with complex riffs and dense layers, setting the tone for the album's grandeur. The title track, "Ithyphallic," showcases the band's ability to blend crushing heaviness with intricate rhythms, while "Papyrus Containing the Spell to Preserve Its Possessor Against Attacks from He Who Is in the Water" is a shorter, ferocious burst of energy, showcasing Karl Sanders' and Dallas Toler-Wade's unmatched guitar work.

"Even the Gods Must Die," the album's closer, stands out with its length and dramatic progression, offering a dynamic journey that balances brutality with moments of haunting melody.

Ithyphallic is a monumental album that highlights Nile’s mastery in crafting a sonic world steeped in history and myth. Tracks like "As He Creates, So He Destroys" and "Papyrus..." are testaments to their technical prowess, while the atmospheric moments in "Eat of the Dead" and "Even the Gods Must Die" add depth to their relentless assault.

My favorite tracks include "As He Creates, So He Destroys," "Papyrus...," and the unforgettable "Even the Gods Must Die." These songs capture the essence of what makes Nile unique: their ability to merge historical intrigue with some of the most technically proficient death metal ever created.

This album is a must-listen for fans of extreme music and anyone fascinated by the blend of history and metal. It’s a record that demands attention and rewards it with a richly immersive experience.

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