When stacked against the barren wasteland of the 2018 thrash metal scene, comparatively, 2019 is off to a much stronger start. The likes of Critical Defiance, Inculter and Exumer have dropped solid albums thus far. And now, up and coming Detroit band Euphoria Ω return with the follow-up to their impressive 2016 debut, Operation: Genesis. The biggest downfall of their debut album is that it was overshadowed by Vektor’s modern masterwork Terminal Redux. Clearly influenced by Vektor’s  forward thinking, progressive style of modern thrash, Euphoria Ω were nevertheless able to establish their own identity with their raw, cutting edge style and solid songwriting chops landing them firmly on the radar as a thrash act worth keeping a close eye on..

Euphoria Ω’s futuristic, sci-fi themed approach is kept intact on Nanotech, but otherwise the band’s angle has changed, without sacrificing the elements that impressed on the debut. The furious thrash tempos and Vektor influence hasn’t been discarded entirely, rather scaled back. Shreddy guitar work and loads of crunchy thrash riffs remain, this time their thrash formula features a crossover influence not dissimilar to the streetwise attitude and hard-hitting style of Power Trip. And with the quality of riffs and dynamic songwriting on display, Euphoria Ω hit the ground running with a confident, compact and infectious batch of tunes. Despite their relatively short existence Euphoria Ω form a tight and cohesive unit, each of the five band members nailing their respective roles with technical precision and finesse.

Nanotech is pared down to its leanest, meanest form, completely free of useless filler, with the six tracks combining for an efficient and easily replayable run-time, a shade over half an hour. In an age of bloated metal albums with unnecessary lengths, it’s refreshing to listen to an album that doesn’t fuck around. Regardless, there’s ample substance in each of the solidly fleshed out tracks, where the rugged, hi-tech individual entities form a cohesive whole. Opener “Electro Hypnosis” features the band’s more measured and gritty song-writing approach, relying on slick guitar work, brain scrambling riffs and an aggressive backbone to hammer their point home. Equally, “Respawn” relies on an energetic but mainly mid-paced clip, showcasing strong, catchy riffs and raw-throated vocals.

Initially the less speedy approach caused me some concern, but the double barrelled blast of hooky riffs, proggy touches and dynamic twists won me over and kept me clambering back for more. There’s a toughness and ferocity that lends the album a nasty edge, from the strained vocals and rugged grooves to the no-holds-barred aggression, this shit hits with forceful impact. “Labyrinth Online” exemplifies these traits and the song’s guitar pyrotechnics and rugged headbangable riffs are an absolute treat, while the motormouth vocal delivery would do Archspire proud. Meanwhile the knuckle dragging crunch of “Mechanical Carnivore” combines memorable riffs and measured pacing, with speedier bursts and a more melodic, though still gruff vocal approach, to strong effect. “Brainstorm” completes the album with a speedy clip and heavy climax, rounding Nanotech out in solid fashion. There’s no filler in sight and the clean, sturdy production and modern sheen fits the band’s futuristic aesthetics and lyrical themes nicely.

Overall, Euphoria Ω have pulled together an impressive, self-released package with a stamp of class and professionalism. Euphoria Ω’s futuristic and cutting edge brand of modern crossover thrash stands out from the pack amidst the nostalgia gripped stocks of the thrash scene. It’s this fresh, exuberant perspective that makes Euphoria Ω such an enjoyable and exciting band, particularly as the mighty Vektor remain dormant. Nanotech is a welcome change of pace and extension from their impressive debut, boding well for a bright future ahead.

[Visit the band's website]

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