Marking 15 Years of an Opus: Nomad Son’s The Eternal Return
- Noel Mifsud
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Formed in Mellieħa, in 2006, Nomad Son quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the doom metal scene. Known for their brooding compositions and apocalyptic themes, their music delves into the depths of doom, death, and Christian-inspired reflections. Signed to Metal on Metal Records, the band first captured attention with two demo tracks—“Shallow Grave” and “Empyrean Fade”—included in a 2008 label compilation. However, they never officially released a standalone demo.
July 16, 2025, marks the 15th anniversary of Nomad Son’s sophomore album, The Eternal Return, a cornerstone of Maltese doom metal that has left a profound impression on the global metal scene since its release in 2010. Issued under Metal on Metal Records (Catalog ID: MOMR10018), the album encapsulates a unique blend of traditional doom influences with a bold, progressive edge, solidifying Nomad Son’s place in the annals of the genre.
Spanning nearly 54 minutes across eight tracks, The Eternal Return offers a dynamic range of tempos, tones, and atmospheres. From the energetic gallop of “The Vigil” and “Sigma Draconis” to the slow, mournful dirges of “Comatose Souls” and the epic 11-minute “Winds of Golgotha,” the album showcases both diversity and cohesion. The title track, with its haunting narration transitioning into Jordan Cutajar’s distinctive vocal style, highlights the band’s penchant for storytelling through music.
The album’s texture owes much to Julian Grech’s commanding keyboard presence, which steps beyond mere accompaniment to become an essential melodic and atmospheric force. Tracks like “Comatose Souls” and “Winds of Golgotha” demonstrate this vividly, with organ solos that intertwine seamlessly with Chris Grech’s guitar leads. This interplay of instruments creates a sound that is at once vintage and innovative, honoring doom metal traditions while exploring new frontiers.
The band’s lineup for The Eternal Return—Albert Bell (bass, additional vocals), Edward Magri (drums), Chris Grech (guitars), Julian Grech (keyboards, organ), and Jordan Cutajar (vocals)—delivers a performance steeped in synergy and precision. Produced, mixed, and mastered by David Vella at Temple Studios in Malta, the album reflects meticulous craftsmanship. The evocative cover art by Jowita Kamińska-Peruzzi and the thoughtful layout by Simone A. Peruzzi further enhance the album's aesthetic and thematic resonance.
To commemorate the album’s release, a launch party was held at Luxol Sports Club on July 17, 2010. The event took place on a sweltering summer night and featured Sicilian doom metal band Trinakrius as the supporting act, adding to the dark and immersive atmosphere of the evening.
Upon release, The Eternal Return received widespread acclaim for its bold approach and richly layered sound. Critics lauded Cutajar’s vocal delivery, often described as a “raw, prophetic howl,” which ties the album’s diverse tracks together. The use of keyboards as a lead instrument drew comparisons to vintage rock and heavy metal legends, while the band’s integration of Christian and apocalyptic themes sparked intrigue and admiration.
Fans and reviewers alike appreciated the maturity and depth evident in this album compared to its predecessor, First Light (2008). While First Light laid a solid foundation for Nomad Son’s sound, The Eternal Return showcased a band that had evolved significantly, embracing a darker, more intricate style of composition and lyricism.
Their next album was released on August 30th, 2013 and was titled The Darkening.
In 2018, drummer Edward Magri departed the band and was succeeded by Chris Galea, marking a new chapter in the group’s journey.
Fifteen years later, The Eternal Return remains a hallmark of doom metal, celebrated for its originality and emotional depth. It stands as a testament to Malta’s vibrant yet understated contribution to the metal world and continues to resonate with listeners old and new.
As fans revisit tracks like “Guilty as Sin” and “Throne of Judgement,” the album’s enduring relevance becomes clear. Whether through its evocative lyrics, masterful musicianship, or timeless atmosphere, The Eternal Return solidifies its place as a classic, embodying the spirit of doom metal while transcending its boundaries.
This anniversary not only honors the album’s legacy but also reaffirms Nomad Son’s role in shaping the genre. The Eternal Return remains a vital and cherished piece of doom metal history, its echoes as powerful today as they were in 2010.
Bibliography
Metal Archives. The Eternal Return album page. Accessed December 2024. https://www.metal-archives.com
Orionmetalhead. “Impeccable Doom - 90%.” Metal Archives Review, January 29, 2014.
Jessie117. “Nomad Son - The Eternal Return - 70%.” Destructive Music Webzine, September 28, 2012.
Metantoine. “Malta's Doom is Nigh! - 82%.” Contaminated Tones Review, September 2, 2011.
Metal on Metal Records. Nomad Son Artist Page. Accessed December 2024. http://metal-on-metal.com
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