Lenax | Infection | Self-Release

 

    Lenax is a melodic black metal band from Nashville, Tennessee, founded in late 2022 by vocalist/guitarist Venomous. What began as a solo project quickly evolved into a full band with a distinct identity rooted in second-wave black metal and laced with influences from thrash, classic heavy metal, and symphonic arrangements. The band first attracted attention with their 2023 debut EP, “Purity,” gaining traction both in the U.S. and abroad. Known for blending themes of esotericism, cosmic horror, and rebellion into their music, Lenax describes their aesthetic as “cosmic horror fueled nightmares.” With Venomous joined by guitarist Mordred, drummer Bones, and session musicians Hephaestus and Maikon, the band now delivers their first full-length, “Infection,” mastered by Øystein Brun (Borknagar) and mixed by Ilarion Ivanenko.

“Infection” is a concentrated blast of melodic black metal and structured with clear purpose. It draws from established blueprints without being derivative and introduces just enough flair to maintain a sense of urgency and uniqueness. The guitar work forms the core of the album’s identity, often veering between cold tremolo passages and riffing that edges toward black 'n roll. The rhythm section is steady and shapes the flow with intent, rarely overreaching yet maintaining presence. Venomous’ vocals are raw and effective, not buried nor dominant, but balanced within the mix, which allows the thematic weight of the lyrics to surface without overstatement.

The sequencing of tracks feels deliberate, with movement from faster, aggression-fueled moments to sections more atmospheric or meditative. The production finds an equilibrium between modern sound fidelity and the genre’s raw aesthetic roots, thanks in part to the mastering handled in Norway. While there are hints of influence from bands like Watain, Immortal, and Enslaved, Lenax doesn’t retain originality. Instead, they opt for a calculated fusion that respects genre expectations while allowing space for their character to emerge.

What helps “Infection” avoid monotony is its sense of motion and consistency. No one track overwhelms the others, and there’s a cohesion that makes the entire listen feel like a passage—one that doesn’t aim to shock, but rather to immerse. Whether the listener interprets it as a descent or a revelation may depend on their stance toward the philosophical and occult symbolism laced throughout. Either way, it’s a debut that suggests Lenax is focused and serious about their path forward, building a sonic identity without leaning too heavily on production gimmicks or genre clichés.

Score: 8.0