REVIEW

The second collaborative release between deer death and Nextime has arrived with striking speed—just seven months after their previous joint effort. Following “Next Death,” the pace alone suggests a partnership operating with unusual momentum.

In an earlier review of “Next Death,” it was noted that the division of roles between the two artists was difficult to discern. With greater familiarity gained from listening more closely to their respective solo works, a clearer picture now begins to emerge. The guitar work, in particular, appears to be the key. Compared to deer death’s standalone material, the distortion here is more restrained, and the presence of groove-oriented riffs—often associated with influences like Deftones—stands out. This combination suggests that Nextime may be responsible for much of the guitar framework on this release.

As a result, the overall shoegaze density feels somewhat reduced. Even so, the deeply melancholic melodies that define deer death’s appeal remain firmly intact, making the album accessible and satisfying for long-time listeners. Among the tracks, #6, “Fault,” leaves a particularly strong impression. Its atmosphere may recall a hypothetical crossover between Sentenced and mid-era Katatonia, channeling a heavy sense of sorrow while retaining an unexpectedly direct, almost anthemic chorus.

Taken together, the album highlights how subtle shifts in collaboration can reshape texture and emphasis, without losing the emotional core that draws listeners to deer death in the first place.