Review by Alexi on May 6, 2005.

Some people became worried when Nile’s legendary drummer Tony Laureano left the band following two tours in support of In Their Darkened Shrines, the band’s last full length album. These fears were all but worsened when the band was put on hiatus, allowing Nile mastermind Karl Sanders to record his solo album. Nile entered the recording studio early this year to record their fourth full length album with the relatively unknown Greek protégée drummer George Kollias.

What came out of these sessions was Annihilation of the Wicked, the bands latest and most potent release to date. For this record, Nile moved the Egyptian influence completely to the background, with the exception of a few short passages. With the Egyptian influence in the background as a subtlety, the listener is ferociously attacked with some of the heaviest rhythms Sanders and Co. have ever written. Drummer George Kollias displays not only his speed behind the kit, but also his grace as he is able to compliment every note produced by the guitar riff machines.

The structures of the songs are structured like a journey in that you go from one place to another, but nothing is unfamiliar as the songs always have a part which the listener can relate to. Songs such as “Cast Down the Heretic” prove that Sanders can still pull off lightning fast leads which culminate into a beautifully composed melody.

With Annihilation of the Wicked, it seems as though Nile has finally found their sound and style. Moving the Egyptian theme to the background was a wise move for this record not only because it allows Sanders and second guitarist Dallas Toler-Wade to shine, but also gives the death metal fans who couldn’t relate to the Egyptian influence a chance feel the true brutality of Nile. This album is a must have for metal fans who enjoy anything technical and heavy.


Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 10
Atmosphere: 9
Production: 10
Originality: 9
Overall: 10

Rating: 9.6 out of 10