Nite | Cult Of The Serpent Sun | Season Of Mist

 

Nite formed in 2018 in the Bay Area, founded by multi-instrumentalist Van Labrakis, whose vision combined the melodic flair of early heavy metal with the abrasive bite of black metal vocals. The debut "Darkness Silence Mirror Flame" established their stylistic approach, while 2021's "Voices Of The Kronian Moon" saw the group stretch into more cosmic and expansive terrain. With "Cult Of The Serpent Sun," Nite returns to earth, wielding their riffs and fire-hardened conviction in a campaign forged on stage and refined through discipline, uniting elements of the past with their own sharpened form.

San Francisco’s Nite continues their march through the modern metal underground with their third full-length, "Cult Of The Serpent Sun," a work that deepens the band’s commitment to their unique fusion of classic heavy metal structure and blackened vocal attack. Since their formation in 2018, Nite has been steadily carving their identity with melodic twin-guitar leads, galloping rhythms, and a harsh vocal presence that contrasts the otherwise traditional heavy metal framework.

On "Cult Of The Serpent Sun," the band expands the scale and urgency of their sound. The production, handled internally by vocalist/guitarist Van Labrakis, gives the album a consistent atmosphere—weighty, fast, and immersive without veering into excess. Each track is firmly rooted in familiar traditions, but Nite infuse their songwriting with a relentless energy that never strays far from their core concept.

The guitars of Labrakis and Scott Hoffman carry the melodic charge, firing off harmonized lines and tight rhythm work, while Avinash Mittur’s bass remains prominent throughout, adding presence rather than just underpinning the action. Patrick Crawford’s drum work maintains a brisk and disciplined pace, favoring punch over flamboyance. Across its eight tracks, the album never overstays its welcome, shifting tempo and tone just enough to remain dynamic without breaking the thread.

Rather than embracing a purely nostalgic or theatrical angle, Nite stays grounded, serious, and determined. Lyrically and musically, the album reflects a consistent vision—of endurance in the face of darkness, told through mythic imagery and ancient fire. The closing moments aim for resolution and purpose, making "Cult Of The Serpent Sun" feel whole and considered.

This is not an album that seeks to impress with novelty or eccentricity. Instead, it commits fully to a sound and aesthetic and delivers it with focus and intensity. For listeners seeking heavy metal with grit, grit without gloss, and fury without collapse, this is a firm statement of intent.

Score: 7.5/10