The Hellenic Black Metal scene is held to high acclaim within the world of Black Metal. Bands such as Rotting Christ, Varathron, Necromantia, all trace their roots back to the scene. Although the scene has remained strong ever since its inception, recent years has proven that the scene is only getting stronger with more and more bands emerging from the scene (all the while honing the characteristics that gave the scene its distinction). As it so happens, every highlight has its shadow. Nergal have, in my opinion, always stood in the shadow of its contenders. The band has been active since the early nineties and yet has never rose to the same levels of fame as their countrymen. Fast forward to 2026 and we’re seeing the release of Nergal’s fifth full-length record entitled ‘Blessed’ out on Zombi Danz Records.
The music itself is pretty strong on ‘Blessed’. It’s the first album with Nyogtha on guitars and bass. His riffs are filled to the brim with signature Hellenic Black Metal hooks. The catchy melodies come swinging round in often mid-paced tempos and have a way of compounding themselves into the brain. The downside being, perhaps, that it all feels a tad familiar. Nergal is basically expanding onto the foundation laid by the early Rotting Christ albums, without really breaking away from it. The sole remaining original member is, of course, Expulsion Angel and he’s putting in his weight in the keyboard department. Fortunately for Symphonic Black Metal haters, the keyboards are used mostly to accentuate specific sections, never on the forefront. Long time member Porphyrion is still on vocals. His shrieks are strong as always, bearing resemblance to Varg Vikerness’ shrieks. The drums are rather simple, but effective. They do sound programmed, both in execution and actual sound. There is, unfortunately, one tom that’s resonating awfully in the mix. Might be me, but I find it pretty disturbing.
As for the production, it’s has a very digital sound to it. The guitars sound very trebly and flat but retain a strong clarity. The kind of distortion used on them is very reminiscent of a 1990’s tone and that’s very fitting for an album like ‘Blessed’. The overall atmosphere is very true to 90’s standards as well. Despite one can only guess what Nergal was envisioning for this album, I have a strong suspicion that they were heading towards a nostalgia driven vibe. With that, ‘Blessed’ is likely to satisfy the thirst for every lover of the Hellenic Black Metal sound. I can’t imagine the band not being happy with the result of their new album, as it might well be a huge monument to the sound of the scene they’ve always been a part of.
