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EP Review: Inner Light-Nova

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Cover Artwork Courtesy of Tristan Sberna


Words Written by Anselm Anderson


Last month, the French metalcore band Inner Light released their debut album, *Nova*, through an independent label. The female-fronted group follows the success of their two previous EPs: 2023's Inner Light and Structure. Their latest release features a nine-track collection of sonically enhanced metal, characterised by blistering drums, hollow, harsh vocals, and harmonious guitars, all blended with dark atmospherics.

Nova is really the introduction to the band, following a few tasters of what they are about. Produced and mastered by Oscar Nilsson at Studio Bohus and Thomas 'Plec' Johansson at The Panic Room in Sweden. The band formed in 2022 to create music focused on dark subjects with powerful statements. Their music is melodic yet sharp, with each song offering a modern take on metal. Lead singer Marine delivers unique vocals, complemented by the diverse and dynamic guitar harmonies of Tristan and Nicolas. Mathieu's basslines maintain the rhythm with an energetic rawness, while drummer Maxime adds to the performance with his precise, machine-gun-like drumming skills.


I reviewed the band from Rouen, France, a couple of years ago and wrote a glowing review, and Nova builds on that enthusiasm. The album continues similar themes found in their previous releases but places more emphasis on structure. They have introduced more well-crafted intros, such as in the opener "Fade Away," which delivers a harrowing sound that segues into dark, thunderous riffs and aggressive, harsh vocals. Marine's singing expresses even more rage and anguish than in previous efforts 'Siren's Call' continues with breakneck speed and precision, as the razor-sharp riffs, pummeling drumming, and rhythm sections amplify the vocals of Marine.


Photo Courtesy of Sushi Lab Photography

Similar to their previous albums, Marine blends clean singing with harsh vocals in tracks like "Wake Up!" and "Fallout." The focus is on the band's songwriting, crafting emotionally charged songs with melodic vocals and guitar lines that are rich in hooks. This invites listeners to connect more deeply with the music.

'Nova' amplifies intensity through speed and aggression, while 'My Deepest Fear' explores the band's vulnerable insecurities with harsh yet melodic vocals and punishingly catchy riffs. The band has strived to add a modern edge to their music with the inclusion of memorable riffs and breakdowns, which gives the music more opportunities to appeal to the listener. The album concludes with the atmospheric and melancholic track 'Bright', which encapsulates the anguish and mood of the band on 'Nova'.

Nova represents the culmination of Inner Light's journey to this point. These tracks are among their most personal yet, reflecting their frustration and anger. The band has improved their sound with more aggressive vocals, catchier riffs, and refined songcraft, as each track resonates with the listener's emotions.

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Copyright: Anselm Anderson ©


Click on the Spotify Player to listen to the full album.

 

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