Power trio outfits check off massive appeal to this scribe – the less is more principle places key components at the top of the list to strip performances down to those essential elements in straight ahead constructs. Nitrogods lives in this world – delivering stripped down hard rock ‘n’ roll with bluesy, rough around the edges attitude that sits well with people who love that fine line between heavy metal and old school classic rock. Valley of the Gods as the fifth studio record comes five years after Rebel Dayz – although smartly releasing a 2022 double live album 10 Years of Crap – Live to satisfy the hordes while waiting out the COVID-19 activities.
With lyrical themes that subscribe to road trips (“Left Lane to Memphis”), alcohol haze moments (“Last Beer Blues”), as well as struggles to accept the reality / celebrity media sensationalism (“Prime Time Terror”), listeners can expect a diverse selection of musical themes that incorporate influences like Motörhead, ZZ Top, AC/DC, Nazareth and other early NWOBHM tastemakers. Between the multitude of cranking chords Henry Wolter pushes out in different slide, bluesy or hard rock/heavy metal angles and the forward-thinking bass distortion that acts as a second lead instrument from Claus ‘Oimel’ Larcher, the sonic push to the highway trucking “Rotten Sucker” or the aforementioned “Left Lane to Memphis” provides two memorable arrangements on first (and subsequent) passes. When the band chooses to slow down or take a left field turn, you can expect slide guitar action next to some 50s/60s bluesy style elements next to a forceful Klaus Sperling steady drum foundation within the title cut before they return to normal metal formats for second half favorites “Gimme Beer” and “Ridin’ Out”. Claus’ whiskey soaked, sandpaper-ish melodies keep the group’s appeal probably to more of a working-class crowd – but you cannot deny the charm as these songs sound rough and ready to conquer any stage these musicians choose to take on.
We need bands like Nitrogods that off set the complex intricacies other styles provide. Valley of the Gods delivers 14 primal tracks executed by seasoned musicians getting to the heart of what makes heavy metal and hard rock so important. Get on your motorcycle and find the open road – this is a great soundtrack to feel the wind whipping in your face as you enjoy the trip.