Dissonant death metal had a relatively quiet year in 2025, with only a handful of truly standout releases. So what better way to kick start the new year than an EP from transnational titans Nightmarer. Their 2023 full length, Deformity Adrift, was my album of the year, with its intelligent and uncompromising take on modern dissodeath. Since then the band parted ways with influential guitarist Keith Merrow, and decided not to replace him. They have, however, now added Christian Kolf (Owl, Valborg) to their ranks as co-vocalist. What we have here then, is not simply four new tracks of technical savagery, it's a conscious evolution of the Nightmarer sound.
Hell Interface is a statement from the remaining members that they aren't resting on their laurels and intend to break new ground. There is a reinvigorated creative energy running through all these tracks, as though shackles they didn't realise they were wearing have been released. The additional vocalist is where the biggest change is most noticeable, as Kolf's impressive range creates textures and ambience. This includes spoken word, choral chants, twisted harmonies and much more. It's a powerful tool, and one that Nightmarer use to full effect. You'll find more nuances, space and melody across Hell Interface than on the entirety of Deformity Adrift. The walls of depraved noise are still there but accompanying them are more delicate touches and experimentation. There is a shift in tone too, with the opening track, “Extinction Burst”, summoning black metal atmospherics more than death metal brutality.
There are plenty of memorable moments scattered throughout the EP, but with repeated listens I’ve found the slower, more sparse compositions are the ones that have stuck with me. “Crawl of Time” meanders and stalks its way through a shadowy wilderness full of disgustingly heavy riffs and intricate drum fills. The title track is as eerie as you’d expect, albeit with a delightful jazz influenced mid-section that you might not. However, it’s lead single “Shame Spiral” that has really captured my heart and cemented itself as my favourite song of 2026 so far (yes, I know it’s only January). Simon Hawemann’s mind bending guitar tone on this track sounds like the strings are literally unravelling while being played. I have no idea how he achieved these noises, but I am definitely here for more.
Hell Interface is a veritable treasure trove for fans of anything dissonant, and if this is an indication of the direction Nightmarer are now heading in, I’m already salivating at the prospect of their next album.