Review by TheOneNeverSeen on March 19, 2023.

Necronomicon Ex Mortis’s debut self-titled EP, consisting of the two previously released singles and two new songs is, in spite of its funny name, a good, although inconsistent, death metal record, that, I believe, is a sign that the band has a bright future. 

The first song, just like the rest of the EP, is clearly influenced by The Black Dahlia Murder (although I would say more than any other track) and is also the best song on the album. The verses and the chorus are very catchy, the solo is epic and fits the song well, the guitars are highly melodic, most notably after the chorus, the main riff is fire and the lyrics – pretty intense and not overly relying on the genre’s clichés (my favorite lines are probably "evil awaits you beyond the horrors you’ve dreamt about" and "in the cosmic graveyard lies the celestial tomb"). 

The second song, 'Earth Cancer', is the weakest one on the EP. Here the band tries to imitate early Cannibal Corpse/Deicide/Autopsy style of riffing, but fails to make the track enjoyable or remarkable, as the vocals don’t combine well with the guitars, the solo feels out of place and the overall song structure is inconsistent (in a bad way), unable to explore one particular feeling or emotion well. I think NEM tried to include way too many good elements that don’t combine with each other at all in this song, failing to concentrate on either of them as a result. 

The following song, entitled 'Nocturnal' (if this does not prove the band is influenced by TBDM, I don’t know what does) has a solid riff and an interesting development, creating a sense of rage. Besides, Craig shows some of his best vocal performance here. The last track, 'The Burning', possesses another TBDM-like intro riff and a catchy chorus as well as another excellent riff accompanying it. My personal favorite after 'Celestial Tomb'. 

Overall, the EP feels solid. It has remarkable melodies, a good sound and a cool cover. Nothing spectacular, yet an enjoyable release that you will probably find a good track or two on.

Rating: 8 out of 10