Swiss Death Metal outfit NIHILO was formed in 2003. In 16 years since their debut EP in 2008, they have had some line-up changes, with vocalist Ragulan Vivekananthan as the sole original member. They also have had a steady number of releases in which they have shown how their style has progressed and specially, how they have been developing their identity. “Made Of Lies” is a compilation that showcases that evolution. It includes three EPs, “The Flaming Bed In Benum” and “Antichrist”, both released in 2012 and “Infected” released in 2013. As a bonus they have included an unreleased song, ‘Made Of Lies’, recorded in 2022. And although there were two line-up changes between the EPs and the unreleased song, there are no significant changes in their music. This is Death Metal the way it was meant to be. Right in your face, with riveting tempo variations, memorable riffs that use palm muting, tremolo and big open chords, pounding bass lines and intricate drum work. There are little nuances here and there, mostly from mid to late ’90s Death Metal. They managed to combine the severity of Northamerican Death Metal with a Scandinavian Black Metal vibe and a huge British thump, which makes NIHILO a jack of all trades, so to speak. And it also makes this compilation a really enthralling listen, due to the different periods of time in which the recordings took place. The sound is great all the way through. Every instrument has its place in the mix and there are no gaps in between. And even if there are some small changes, I guess due to production choices, the sharp guitar tones, the slamming bass and the punchy drums dominate the sonic landscape. Last, but not least, the vocals come through amazingly well. Ragulan knows his craft, offering a plethora of deep growls, mid range grunts and high screams, highlighting parts when needed and leaving space for the music to shine. All in all, “Made Of Lies”, released by the fine Mexican label Iron Blood And Death Corporation, is both a perfect starting point for listeners to discover what and awesome band NIHILO is and a gem for fans and collectors of the band that missed these recordings when they were released. Support the band at www.facebook.com/nihilometal and get this excellent compilation from their label www.facebook.com/ibdc666