The American band Nøkk, hailing from Columbus, Ohio, made its debut in 2021. Not long after came the EP Repel The Incursion. Now, via the resurrected cult label Solistitium Records, comes their first full-length album, Heartless. The band, centered around Gallagher and Hames, has managed to open up a whole can of session musicians in order to bring this record to life. Additionally, the two gentlemen roped in Todd Paulson for the artwork—incidentally, the same fine fellow who also created the music video. Recording, as well as the fine-tuning of the mixing and mastering process, was handled by Joe Viers.
All well, I can hear you think, but give us a bit more information about the band, the album… perhaps even the concept. Unfortunately, I have to disappoint you there—for the time being, such details are not in my possession. Visiting the band’s website does little to enlighten me either. You do learn that these gentlemen have a certain background in the extreme music scene, but nothing much beyond that. So: press play, then.
How can the blind lead or guide anyone? Presumably, it’s best not to overthink it or search too far. Sound, tones—what we call music—likely play a significant role here, and it is precisely in this regard that Nøkk appears to excel. With the help of a foggy guitar tapestry, driven forward by a tight blast beat, the listener is set on their way. From the very first note, it is clear that these Americans not only know how to create atmosphere, but are also capable of playing with dynamics in a way that lends the whole a distinct character. Just listen to the playful cymbal work and the subtle synths, which may not be overt but certainly add value. Impressive!
From a production standpoint, the drums sound a bit too tame to my ears. That said, the slightly brighter mix gives the other instruments ample breathing room. The narrative, storytelling guitars, for instance, paint many a melancholic line. At times, piercing lead melodies take over, with drum beast Yacoub putting his own unique spin on things. For a prime example of this, listen to the middle section of the title track or All The Pretty Things. One cannot deny the presence of Cascadian influences throughout the album; however, the band manages to interpret them in an entirely personal way. Impressive, once again—I already said it already.
Indeed, Nøkk has delivered a thoroughly heartless record. On their debut full-length, they attempt to let the blind lead those who have lost their way, resulting in a body of work that cuts straight through your defences and under your skin. Atmospheric black metal with savage passages—powerful stuff!
Score:
85/100
Label:
Solistitium Records, 2025
Tracklisting:
- The Blind Leadin’ The Lost
- Heartless
- Nøkk The Silence
- All The Pretty Things
- Dead
- The Hanging Tree
Line-up:
- Jake Gallagher – Vocals, guitar
- Rob Hames – Vocals
- Nick Hadley – Bass guitar (session)
- AP – Synth (session)
- CJ Yacoub – Drums (session)
Links: