Album Review: Nyrak – Phoenix Mortis
Band: Nyrak
Title: Phoenix Mortis
Label: Void Wanderer Productions
Release date: October 30th, 2025
Country: Belgium
Format reviewed: High-quality digital recording
Album Review: Nyrak – Phoenix Mortis via Void Wanderer Productions by Michelle
Originating from Belgium, Nyrak’s new release: ‘Phoenix Mortis’ brings all willing listeners the perfect blend of both atmospheric and progressive elements into their record. Nyrak’s way of producing music might be nothing too special to some people, but it most definitely deserves some appreciation!
1) Leviathan
0:00-3:27
The starting track might feel calm at first – but do not get deceived. After about half a minute everything suddenly changes, the fast drumming taking lead among the overall harsh atmosphere as the vocals only seem to piece everything together.
3:27-5:23
Even though I did not expect the change in tempo it is most definitely pleasing, the calmer approach being quite unexpected yet still fitting perfectly into the song. This ‘pause’ doesn’t last long though, and it is quickly replaced with the previous energy as the track ends.
2) Promethean fire
0:00-5:06
As ‘Promethean Fire’ begins, the raw energy is an obvious presence, considering both the vocals and instrumental. While there may not be much of a rhythmic approach, I would consider this song worth hearing in a live performance.
3) Floods of Gilgamesh
0:00-0:55
I personally really enjoyed the starting riffs of this track, as they feel a bit atmospheric in combination with the background synthesizer.
0:55-5:49
Vocals start, and so does the intensity in energy. Once again, drums are a bit highlighted, especially in certain parts thanks to the double bass and techniques used.
4) Die Verwandlung
0:00-0:25
At first, I didn’t seem too fazed about whether I’d consider this track interesting enough or not, but Nyrak definitely proved me wrong with their abilities.
0:25-5:18
The sudden harsh palm muting pausing the song caught me off guard, obviously getting my attention, and I think it’s a nice approach, especially in live appearances.
5) In the Halls of the Aesir
0:00-0:47
Starting with what seems to be some piano notes and voices whispering something inaudible, this aspect brings a sort of mystery to this track before the melody itself starts.
0:47-4:26
Somehow, the instrumental feels a bit smoother, at least until the vocals take lead and morphs everything into something more raw and dynamic.
6) Phoenix Mortis I : In This Void
0:00-0:57
The following 3 tracks seem like a trilogy considering their titles, but leaving this aside, ‘In This Void’ starts, much like the previous song, with a somewhat melancholic sounding piano.
0:57-4:27
Despite the change being sudden, it definitely has its place, bringing the perfect twist into Nyrak’s sound and the listener’s experience.
4:27-7:37
There’s a sudden pause in the song, which obviously was not expected, yet I think it is a nice addition in order to spark curiosity.
7) Phoenix Mortis II : Requiem
0:00-5:15
One of my favorite things about the start of this song is probably the short moment of silence right before it is interrupted by the aggressive drumming and obviously, the heavily distorted guitar riffs.
8) Phoenix Mortis III : Ashes to Flesh
0:00-0:30
The soft lullaby might feel out of place, yet it kind of represents the ‘calm before the storm’.
0:30-6:00
As usual, distortion is present, only making this production more atmospheric-like. The change in tempo is not overdone, maintaining a balanced flow. 8/10
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8/10 To Greatness and Glory!
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