Album Review: Sea Sleeper – Nostophobia (Metal Assault Records)

Portland’s Sea Sleeper’s debut record Nostophobia (Meaning an abnormal fear or dislike of returning home) is out on February 5th 2021 via Metal Assault Records.

Combining two of my favourite genres (death and post) Sea Sleeper are a band after my heart even before the play button has been hit. After hearing the full album, I can confidently say that my heart now belongs to them.

What we have here is an album that is disgustingly intense and brutal. Wild and uncouth and downright dangerous sounding at times. Yet Sea Sleeper have converted their aggression and filtered it through the medium of post and more to come up with a shockingly powerful release. One that is deeply layered and packed with nuances that won’t be picked up on immediately. Stuff that comes at you on repeat listens as your brain looks beyond the crunching drum beat and fiery vocal wails. The guitars taking on a much more profound prominence and for good reason as there is some amazing things going on here.

Every band wants to be unique. To sound like their own thing and to be unmistakable when heard. Few manage it, especially these days. No such problem for Sea Sleeper as it would be impossible to mistake their brand of controlled chaos for anything but them.

It sounds absurd to complain about length here as Nostophobia is around about 43 minutes long. However, the complaint is valid… it’s not long enough! Sea Sleeper have pulled an absolute blinder here and more is wanted. No, desperately needed.

Sea Sleeper – Nostophobia Full Track Listing:

1. Salt
2. Old Guard
3. Coffin Salesman
4. Mountain Carver
5. George Van Tassel
6. Nostophobia
7. Far More than Sustenance Now
8. Low

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