Nodus Tollens is “a neologism used by John Koenig to define the feeling of insecurity that some people get when they find that their lives don’t make sense any more”. To be honest, this description covers most things that I listen to so my hope was that the band would rise above the parapet and deliver as promised “layered textures” and a visit to “higher realms of existence and consciousness”. This is the Portuguese band’s second album.
Musically this is an interesting mix. It’s very prog, especially in the imploring but strong clean vocals, but it’s hard, melodic and with a djenty death metal element, which gives it additional oomph. “The Prodigal Son”, which opens up the album, has a nice balance and good harmonies. It’s clear that Sullen have a good ear for interesting patterns, layers and structures. “Skylines” drifts along nicely, transforming in tempo and mood, bordering on epic but staying within bounds. I didn’t have the lyrics but I could see that the exhortations to “dream for a while” could lead us to those higher realms of consciousness. But what I liked was that the delivery wasn’t didactic or emotional, were always under control and allowed freedom to the strong and at times flamboyant instrumentals. “Soul Interrupted” is just that – an instrumental psychedelic soundscape. Interesting. “Acheronta Movebo” has a hard prog feel. It’s sinister and even mystical, cleverly expanding in heaviness and breadth. The lyrics are dark, so too is the music which creeps along in a similarly dark way. The heavy groove in a progressive context is hat makes this album stand out, and it’s all here in spades on “Memento”. “Human” is more of a slow burner, but the band bring it to life with expanse and sharp emotion. This leads into the haunting aura of “The After” before the atmospheric prog power pack “Fail Safe” closes out the album.
This isn’t an especially long album but what it lacks in quantity is compensated for by its quality and depth. “Nodus Tollens – Act 1: Oblivion” is a highly accomplished album. It is moody, soulful, dark, heavy and of course sullen but most of all it’s full of progressive energy.
(9/10 Andrew Doherty)
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