The well-informed Metalhead will recognize the name Marco Kehren from the now defunct Dutch doombringers DEINONYCHUS, and from his short appearance amongst the ranks of the now semi-legendary Dark Metallers BETHLEHEM. Now, after the untimely demise of his main project, he has returned with a project far removed from his usual business, bringing his bleak visions into the world of Martial Industrial.

Upon listening to this promo, one is quickly stricken with an apocalyptic feeling, a mix of dread and grandeur. Through a clever use of samples and harsh martial drums, NIHIL NOVI SUB SOLE paints images of a grey dystopian world, incorporating elements of bombastic Neoclassical music to inspire a sense of awe. The music is atmospheric, and with a song length that never surpasses the 5 minute mark, avoids the far too often encountered mind-numbing monotony of dark ambient projects.

With a sound that really reaches beyond the usual constrains of Martial Industrial music, NIHIL NOVI SUB SOLE shows a lot of promise. Considering Kehren's track-record, you expect high quality work, and he does not fail to deliver with this four-song promo.

(Online September 8, 2009)