Review: Nero – Between II Worlds

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After much delay, Nero have finally released “Between II Worlds”, the follow up album to “World Reality”. It was released on the 11th of September on MTA Records.

nero-between-two-worlds

For this album, Nero have done a couple of different things, but fans shouldn’t be disappointed as they haven’t lost the sound we are used to. It is good to admire the creative work of our favourite producers, because after all they are artists also. Overall the entire album is well crafted together, with each song effortlessly leading into each other, creating this cyberpunk futurist world. Many of the songs possess a new retro feel, with their use of 80s synths, samples and singing style of Alana Watson. Producers Daniel Stephens and Joseph Ray amalgamate the old with the new, giving listeners a wonderland of fresh sounds.

Kicking off the motion picture themed album is “Circles”. Starting with 80s synth chords and rising pads, delving into a retro rolling bassline. This follows through with the soulful vocals of Alana Watson. Plenty of pop elements to rock the radio and the dancefloor. The song itself allows one to imagine them self in a futuristic club swaying to the dark, edgy beats.

“The Thrill” was the second single to be released off the album. This tune encompasses more of the liquidy dubstep elements we have come to know Nero for. The hook and bassline are the strong points of the composition, with the kicks gently driving the mix through. Subtle hats and crashes and claps compliment Alana’s voice, giving her vocal centre stage.

The third song, “It Comes And I Goes”, welcomes the sounds of sirens, followed by trancey chords, entwined with Alana’s impressive voice. The song builds up gradually and magnificently to the gentle break. Sidechained atmospheric pads and leads give this song a truly cinematic feel.

“Two Minds” is up next and is the third single of the album. Immediately we hear Alana hooking us into this future house inspired track. A pop song to say the least and a touch of funk. This gives us an indication of the direction Nero is taking their music to. Experimenting with genres other than dubstep. This is a dancefloor hit for sure.

The fifth song is spectacular. “What Does Love Mean” starts off calmly with layers of synths, pads, strings and subtle piano notes before bringing in Alana’s vocals. Breaking into the liquid dubstep beat. Another dancefloor friendly track that manages to give you the feels.

Half way point of the album brings through the tile tune, “Between II Worlds”. My my this is a song of beauty. Nero opted for an instrumental based song where their cinematic theme of the album shone through. Techno arpeggio synth starts off the song. Filmy strings and organ keys take us through to the dubsteppy beats. 80s electropop leads envelope the ears, echoing through is the sound of a man saying he has travelled between two worlds. One has an otherworldly feel whilst listening to this 7 minute song. Beating and banging drums adds to the energy of the breakdown, allowing the listener to get lost , bridging the gap from the first part of the album to the second part, the next world.

Beginning the second part of the album is “Into The Night”. This song features a male vocalist along with Alana. I’d call this a Space funk house song. Nero have managed to fuse futuristic sounds with that oldschool vibe. Once again Alana gives the song a more human feel, shining through.

“Satisfy” is next up and also the first released off the album. This track is more intense and heavier compared to previous songs. The razor blade leads slice through with the bassline complementing Alana’s vocal, giving the song the added edge and sexiness.

“Dark Skies” is the 9th song of the album. Here Nero experimented with trap beats and grime elements, at the same time mixing in dubstep elements. Creating interesting sounds and vibe to the listener. Perfect for the dark club atmosphere, hypnotic and bass-filled.

“Into The Past (Reboot)” is a darker tune. Suspense filmy brass and strings coupled with breaks provide a listening experience. Alana’s voice is the main attraction of this song, with everything built around her vocals.

The second last song is “Tonight”. I’d best describe this tune as a liquid trapstep composition. Featuring orchestral stab synth chords. Grimey basslines and Alana’s filtered vocals. Another heavier track for the dancefloor.

The last song is heartfelt to say the least. “Wasted” is a soulful pop inspired song. One can almost feel the pain of the story as Alan sings the beautiful lyrics. The energy drops and rises gracefully adding to the ache that the song conveys. What a song to end off this spectacular album. Lighters in the air everybody……

I personally am impressed by this album. Nero have showcased superb skill in their sound design of “Between II Worlds”, creating auditory art. It contains a good mix of dancefloor hits, radio friendly chart-toppers and songs simply for listening pleasure. They have taken their sound to another level compared to their first album, “Welcome Reality”. They have shown that there is more to dance music. Stating in an interview with Billboard, Nero have decided to take their live performances into a new direction. Yes they are now a live DJ band, similar to Pendulum and Keys n Krates. Honestly this album would work amazingly in a live show performance and I look forward to seeing this live for myself.

Make sure to grab a copy.