Nicodemus The Supernatural Omnibus
Dark Symphonies 2002
By Russell Garwood
US four piece Nicodemus play an unusual form of gothic metal which includes symphonic black and doom touches, as well as progressive sensibilities and occasional world elements. Switching from mood to mood and always changing in character, the music is rarely static, making for interesting listening.
The band comprises Christopher Morris (vocals, bass, keys), Tamar Yvonne (vocals), guitarist Mathew McGee and drummer Andrew Greene. Great variation is added by diverse vocals; beauty and the beast dual lines ring of early gothic metal, spoken sections and sung passages (male and female) make the songs ever-changing, while numerous styles of growled passages ensure contrast.
The guitars are for the most part excellent, occasionally technical and always melodic, my only complaint being that they can lack power, while the melody is often led by symphonics or piano. This gives the music a graceful, classical feel, and bass is slightly further back in the mix but still has a presence. The drumming is powerful and fitting, always matching the mood of the kaleidoscopic music.
"The Supernatural Omnibus" is an accomplished, emotional release that fans of gothic and symphonic metal will apreciate greatly. Borderless, and often dreamy, Nicodemus music is about as close to relaxing as metal gets, and as such is unlikely to gain universal appreciation, but for many will be a welcome addition to their CD collection.
Dark Symphonies 2002
By Russell Garwood
US four piece Nicodemus play an unusual form of gothic metal which includes symphonic black and doom touches, as well as progressive sensibilities and occasional world elements. Switching from mood to mood and always changing in character, the music is rarely static, making for interesting listening.
The band comprises Christopher Morris (vocals, bass, keys), Tamar Yvonne (vocals), guitarist Mathew McGee and drummer Andrew Greene. Great variation is added by diverse vocals; beauty and the beast dual lines ring of early gothic metal, spoken sections and sung passages (male and female) make the songs ever-changing, while numerous styles of growled passages ensure contrast.
The guitars are for the most part excellent, occasionally technical and always melodic, my only complaint being that they can lack power, while the melody is often led by symphonics or piano. This gives the music a graceful, classical feel, and bass is slightly further back in the mix but still has a presence. The drumming is powerful and fitting, always matching the mood of the kaleidoscopic music.
"The Supernatural Omnibus" is an accomplished, emotional release that fans of gothic and symphonic metal will apreciate greatly. Borderless, and often dreamy, Nicodemus music is about as close to relaxing as metal gets, and as such is unlikely to gain universal appreciation, but for many will be a welcome addition to their CD collection.
