Album Reviews : Internal Nightmare – Demo 2009

Internal Nightmare are a five piece Death Metal wrecking crew, and one of the best to emerge from Melbourne’s Metal scene in recent times. Consisting of Nathan Roberts on vocals, Christian “Dirtbag” Doherty and Aaron Lowe on guitars, Dani Jeffers on bass and Simon Headley on drums, the guys appear to have quite a busy schedule, and even landed a slot on the ABC’s Spicks and Specks, belting out Death Metal versions of Aussie icons AC/DC, John Farnham and Inxs.

I recently picked up their demo cd at a gig at The Arthouse in Melbourne. An impressive debut, which warranting favorable comparisons to the obvious influences these guys must have. However in saying that, the sound is still refreshingly original. The first thing that grabbed my attention was the cds production. They obviously spared no expense getting this three track demo the professional sound it deserves.

The opening track Closed Loop of Creation starts off with some intense guitar riffs which make for the perfect opening to the disc. It is so good in this day and age to hear good honest riff laden Heavy Metal! There is no shortage of hooks! And it doesn’t end with the first track, the second track Birth is guaranteed to get the blood pumping with the crunching rhythm guitars and pitch harmonics that lead seamlessly into the chorus. The growling rasp of Roberts is the perfect accompaniment to the ever so solid musicianship demonstrated on all three tracks but hits his peak in the melodic chorus’ of Birth.

The final track The Term is Frustration? is yet another unrelenting riff fest that hits the mark, a ballsy frantic track that conjures up images of a huge circle pit, the perfect ending to a disc that leaves you wanting more.

I am having trouble finding any faults on this cd. The guys have all the ingredients of a killer act, top notch production, well written songs and skilled musicians. It is easy to see why they seem to have gigs every week. Sure the similarities are there, especially if you are a fan of Lamb of God, Pantera or even Devil Driver, but if you are looking for something new and local, then these guys are for you. So get to some of their shows and support one of Melbourne’s biggest Metal Prospects.

Band: Internal Nightmare
Album: Demo
Year: 2009
Genre:  Groove/Thrash Metal
Label: Self Released
Origin: Melbourne, Australia
http://www.myspace.com/internalnightmare

Track Listing:
1. Closed Loop of Creation
2. Birth
3. The Term is Frustration?

Reviewed by Nick Olden