I chose to ignore the vibe surrounding “Nihility” before actually write about it, a difficult exercise if you ask me. I find it rather amusing that magazines like Kerrang or Metal Hammer England, usually far more interested in short-haired, short-dressed and short-minded “bands” praise a real Metal outfit so much. If some people could only put a little interest in true music instead of raving about the next trend, maybe they could welcome an excellent release as “Nihility” turns out to be without shitting in their pants in awe. I am saying that because while an excellent album, “Nihility” is not the Death Metal revolution on march some individuals would want us to believe it is. DECAPITATED have quite naturally progressed throughout the years and I am sorry, I am not surprised by the result. Everybody interested enough by the Death Metal genre know for sure it is a limitless one, and very open to virtuosity and experimentation. On “Nihility”, DECAPITATED got rid of most of the MORBID ANGEL overtones that somewhat weakened the impact of their first offering (“Winds Of Creation”), and they have obviously worked hard to expand their own style. The production was for sure crafted with great care in order to produce a rather special sharp and biting sound of an almost mineral quality emphasizing the syncopated rhythms omnipresent on the album. Maybe I am wrong assuming that, anyway I suppose that the DECAPITATED musicians looked towards what a band like MESHUGGAH are known to experiment rhythm-wise, because clearly “Nihility” is all about rhythms of an almost abstract nature, icy cold dare I say. On this regard ‘Spheres Of Madness’ is a standout track, and a perfect illustration of what I am trying to express here. “Nihility” is a very challenging album, and not easy to get into. More than one listening is necessary to fully grasp what is it going on, don’t expect an instant pleasing musical work. On the other hand, be reassured that DECAPITATED are still a pure Death Metal outfit, brutal enough to comfort the most raging fans of the genre. This band give another proof that something really special happens in Poland, but a lot of people (including me) know that already. Needless to say, “Nihility” is a mandatory purchase that will make yourselves even more proud to be a Death Metal addict. And I am sure the best is yet to come in the DECAPITATED camp.