Amongst the Catacombs of Nephren-Ka (CD - 1998)

Recording information: Sound Lab, Columbia, SC; Sound Lab, Comumbia, SC.

Unknown Contributor Role: Tibetan Monks.

The members of Nile are bona fide ancient Egypt freaks, and the fascination creeps into their music in ways other than crypt-focused morbidity. Exotic eastern instrumentation adorns songs like "Kudurru Maqlu" and the epic battle blast of "Ramses Bringer of War." Some of this sounds tailor-made for Conan the Barbarian, but Nile never forgets that they're a death metal band first and foremost; their brutal guitars and free-jazz level drumming create dust devils of scouring noise. minimize