RSS Feed


NEMESIS
False Reality

Self-released (2023)
Rating: 8/10

While the band moniker is rather unoriginal, I suggest you clamp your ears on this fizzing mini-masterpiece of Texan thrash metal from Houston-based Nemesis.

In today’s thrash genre there are a lot of same-sounding bands whose only means of attracting listeners are the Ed Repka artwork. Sadly, imitating a scene they were never part of means that the mimicry somewhat dilutes any hope of authenticity. Now, although with Nemesis I hear the influence of Megadeth, Atrophy, Vio-lence, Nuclear Assault etc., this is the kind of modern thrash that I really do enjoy. And when the vocals sneer as much as the axe work you know you’re onto a winner.

Obviously a cohesive unit, Nemesis delivers energetic yet serious and speedy metal led by the scowling snaps of guitarist Nick Broussard who spent a brief time with fellow Texans Labyrinth. False Reality hits like an exocet missile – precise, destructive and without mercy. Opener ‘Slave Of Mistakes’ rips like classic Vio-lence with those cutting riffs and venomous percussive assaults.

There is such an exuberant streetwise vim about this, the guys setting out its stall early to provide white hot weaponry to those brave enough to stick around. ‘Captive Hell’ brings an ominous groove before channelling early Megadeth with its vigour. The thrash comes thick and fast and there isn’t a bad track in sight. ‘N.T.H.’, ‘Aggressor’, ‘Escape’ and the title track all display a diversity within the classic thrash framework with each song being served on a platter consisting of crisp riffs, melodious hooks and forceful vocals.

Eight tracks (‘Dusk Till Dawn’ is a mere interlude) are served up like a meal tinged with spice and sharpness. The ingredients are perfect and work wonders when it comes to flushing the system. False Reality is a strong and convincing debut full-length from a band sure to go places if shown the way and given the support… so let’s start here.

Neil Arnold

<< Back to Album & EP Reviews



Related Posts via Categories
Share