Review Summary: Ill Nino has regressed with their 2012 release, and has become all the more cohesive because of it.
For the last few years Ill Nino has been steadily slipping off the map. With each release they just hadn’t had the same energy or drive to consistently keep their albums in the ‘best of’ category. Albums such as
Enigma,
Confession and
Dead New World had the same basic musical structuring as the rest of their catalogue but unfortunately lacked the gusto to ensure the best result and a better than average reception from listeners’. Enter
Epidemia and Ill Nino has found a sound that compares greatly to a couple of their bigger albums
Revolution Revolucion and
One Nation Underground.
Ill Nino have stripped down to a previous formula and focused on sounds that created such a success on
Revolution Revolucion and
One Nation Underground. The tracks are up tempo and musicianship here is key for ensuring that the album is accessible to the listeners. Listeners know Ill Nino for their Latin influences and whilst they have been subdued somewhat from past releases, they still add to the vibrant soundscape of
Epidemia. Another difference between other records includes overall length; whereas most of Ill Nino’s other records usually had thirteen to fourteen tracks
Epidemia comes through with a mere ten. This gives the listener enough to enjoy this record steadily without overstaying its welcome or becoming a tedious listen.
Ill Nino has a found a strength in its lyrical phrasing and solid musicianship. The lyrics are catchy even spaced and from time to time even include the hook of the song. This all adds to creating a memorable listen and reinforces that this band isn’t ready for the garbage dump yet. The tracks are heavy, melodic but more importantly engaging to an audience. What listeners need to realise is that Ill Nino has used the same basic recipe over and over again and for some reason lost touch with their past releases. Fortunately however
Epidemia displays a band that has much more to give and are willing to give it. Their 2012 release may not be a classic, nor is it revolutionary, but what it does have; it gives one hundred per cent.
This New Jersey six piece has come a long way since their debut and a record with Roadrunner Records. Switching from label to label and line-up changes have all played a part in the sound they make today. Dave Chavarri said he wanted to 'redefine latin metal again’ and while it’s not exactly doing that
Epidemia shows listeners that Ill Nino are indeed alive and kicking.
