Now we are talking, I really like this little number.

Death metal with some intelligence and musicianship behind the music. This little five track is being pushed as unreleased material from way back in 1994, all I can say is why was it not released? And how the hell can the drummer play that fast?! Check out track 2, 'Nepenthe', you'll see what I mean.

Reading the blurb, Nile bases their ideas and lyrics around their own interpretation of ancient Egyptian carvings, inscriptions and hieroglyphics. My god I've just written about a concept album, which means it's heading towards the prog vein (prog death metal!!!). Does this mean I now like prog? Rest assured that is not the case but I do like death metal which I think has tipped the balance in favour of a positive review. In fact, let's be honest, it's a bloody good EP which should have seen the light of day, been dragged up from the catacombs way before now.

Stand outs for me are 'Surrounded By Fright' and 'Le Chant du Cygre'. Heavy, intense, driving and fully in your face as all good death metal should be. Go out and buy or face the wrath of the Pharaohs.

www.myspace.com/nilecatacombs