Emerging from the Irish underground scene in early 2023, progressive metal project, Nebularis caught much public attention when performing at the annual Bloodstock Metal 2 The Masses Ireland last May, with exposure further afield following the release of three singles. They’ve now taken that to the next level with the release of their debut concept album, Exodus – Shattered Earth Saga – Part I alongside the single ‘Critias‘.
The album’s overall concept is described as: “A cracked ball held together by its own mass, its luminescent blood seeping through cracks that span entire continents and boiling oceans: this is the last view the remnants of humanity have of Earth as they flee in horror and anger. But this event marks only the beginning of their saga, as they come to terms with the reality of what they have done, and perhaps, will do in the years and centuries to come. The overriding question in their minds is twofold; will they find a new home amongst the stars, and if so, will they repeat the same mistakes that led to their world’s obliteration?”
Shedding some light on the album’s concept, guitarist Mó Sheerin said: “I always sought out for the album to have an illustrious display of science fiction and general dork lore. Hythams’ lyrics really brought the concept to fruition, and we’re so proud of his work. His words truly painted the imagery behind the story of humanity on a relentless quest to find a new and less hostile life beyond the stars.”
You can check out the video for ‘Critias‘, as you can previous single, ‘Voyager’, with both available digitally.
Speaking about ‘Voyager’, vocalist Hytham Martin said: “In the void of space and in their co-simulated world during hyper-sleep, the remnants of humanity continue on their journey as they wrestle with their actions and dream of a new home. ‘Voyager’, the AI core of the colony-ship Sigma, is wrestling with its own demons.
“Witness to the disastrous attempt at the colonisation of a celestial body comprised of 99.7% water, and the ensuing schism caused amongst its creators; the AI core contemplates the nature of its creator’s morality as their ethics seems to run contradictory to their actions thus far. In light of all that has happened, it muses, perhaps they are unfit to become the custodians of their own futures.”
Aside from lyricist/vocalist Martin, and composer/guitarist Sheeri also playing synthesisers, pianos and being responsible for orchestral arrangements, Terry McHugh plays bass, Damian drums and percussion, while the record also features Alexandria Lawless on cello and Oleksandr Minaiev on violin.
Tracks featured on Exodus – Shattered Earth Saga – Part I are: ‘Tellurian’, ‘Cataclysm’, ‘Aurelia’, Subnautica, Voyager, Exodus, Holocene and ‘Critias’.
The album can be ordered here and for more about Nebularis at RAMzine click here.
