04/10/2023

LP Review: Nervosa- Jailbreak

a skeleton removes a human mask from their skull.

Words by Anselm Anderson


Female-fronted Brazilian Metal band Nervosa's latest release is intense, brutal and aggressive. Jailbreak, the fifth instalment of the band's thirteen-year history was released last Friday via the always reliable Napalm Records.

The follow-up to the breakthrough album 'Perpetual Chaos' carries on from that success with a few lineup changes and a positive attitude. This is the first record with founding member, Prika Amaral as the vociferous frontwoman barking out messages of encouragement over the savage drumming of Michaela Naydenova, bassist Hel Pyre and the twin guitar offence of Helena Kotina and Amaral herself.

Producer Martin Furia rejoins the band to add his expertise to a crisp and raw sound. The crew explores society's lyrical themes and offers messages of hope by commenting about breaking free from conventions and finding your true self. The use of guests like Exodus Guitarist Gary Holt and Death Dealer Union vocalist Lena Scissorhands adds panache to the message accentuated by the thrash element's pure speed. 

The opening of "Endless Ambition" by Amaral is marked by ear-splitting screams, wailing guitars, frantic drums, and raging energy. The tempo of the frenetic track "Suffocare" builds rapidly. Amaral proves to be an adequate frontwoman, conveying frustration and anger through her stomach-inducing vocals. This is especially evident in the turbo-charged "Jailbreak" and "Ungrateful". 

Four female members of the group look menacing.
Photo Credit: Gregory Dourtounis

On the other hand, Nervosa exhibits their exceptional musicianship in "Seed Of Death". The song starts with a captivating intro that gradually builds up to a powerful climax, accompanied by thought-provoking lyrics. The guitarists alternate between slow, melodic harmonies and aggressive, speedy solos, ensuring that the listener remains engaged throughout the performance. In addition, Gary Holt offers his experience on the political "When Truth is A Lie", whilst Lena Scissorhands adds a maniacal edge to "Superstition Failed", a song that questions the role of Religion in society.

As previously mentioned, Amaral and Kotina's double guitar play is immense as they trade blow after blow with each riff growing more impressive than the last. The duo have great chemistry and show that Thrash is not just consigned to the male members of the metal world.

The opening passages of "Elements of Sin" are long and dark, causing goosebumps on one's arms before transitioning into savage riffage accompanied by blood-curdling vocals.

And finally, "Nail The Coffin" closes the album with some scintillating solos and thunderous vocals.

Overall, Nervosa demonstrates its ability to push boundaries with a captivating thrash album that features thought-provoking lyrics, hellish vocals, and impressive guitar work.


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You can watch the video for "Seed of Death" via the YouTube video link below




 







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