Words by Angela Croudace
Out now
Are you in the mood for some nostalgic Aussie alternative rock with a zesty metal twist? Look no further than Nonberk, the Brisbane-based band delivering just that.
Sonically, bands like Silverchair come to mind when describing their sound, but it’s the unique elements and fresh twists that set Nonberk apart. Comprised of Zaac Thompson (guitar/vocals), Kevin Boga (bass) and Samuel Monk (drums, percussion, fx), they take the best of 80s and 90s grunge/rock and breathe new life into it, reviving the genre for the present day. Let’s dive into their latest album, Elements, and you’ll see what I mean.
The album opens with the title track Elements, an atmospheric intro that eases us in with gentle guitar before Zaac’s vocals take centre stage. His gritty yet melodic voice evokes the legendary Layne Staley, displaying a remarkable range that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The track is trance-like, drawing you into a mood of calm, inviting you to sit in the moment and just observe.
That sense of tranquillity doesn’t last long, though; the second track, Encircle, shatters the calm with its explosive energy. The snappy opening snare strikes give off the same intensity as A Perfect Circle‘s Judith, and it’s here that the band’s tight musicianship really shines. The blend of powerful vocals, crisp drums, and driving guitar captures the essence of 90s alternative rock while still sounding uniquely Nonberk.
Next up, Pessimist showcases the band’s harder edge. Led by Zaac’s commanding vocal range and raw, chugging guitar riffs, this track really leans into the rock side of the band. The transitions are seamless, and Zaac’s voice fits the vibe perfectly. The song takes an unexpected but thrilling turn towards the end, with a shredding guitar solo and a faster rhythm that ties everything together and leaves a lasting impression.
Perhaps the track that’s garnered the most attention on the album, Mistress of Liars, proves just how well the band flows with another addition thrown into the mix by way of vocals provided by female vocalist ZZADE (Jade Roles), a long-time friend of Zaac’s and talented artist by her own rights. The listener is hit with a heavy, brooding guitar riff, setting a darker tone than the preceding tracks. The rhythm section is tight, with punchy drums and bass that give the song a solid backbone, but it’s the layers of guitar work and dynamic changes throughout the track that really stand out. The guitar work has that gritty, distorted quality, yet it’s tight enough to show off the band’s technical chops. ZZADE and Zaac’s vocals effortlessly complement each other and work so well against the heavier sound on this track.
Shallow – the guitar work here is gritty yet precise, drawing you in before soft, almost ethereal vocals add an unexpected contrast. The dynamic shifts between the smoother, more introspective verses and the heavier, more intense moments are executed flawlessly. The gentle guitar work during the verses flows seamlessly into the powerful, driving choruses, keeping the energy fluid and engaging. The blend of light and heavy is balanced well, creating a song that feels accessible and emotionally charged. It’s a great introduction to the band’s versatility, showing their knack for building tension before releasing it in satisfying bursts.
Next up is Omniscient, where the intensity ramps up once again. The drums here are punchy, aggressive, and syncopated, laying the groundwork for a guitar riff that follows suit—raw, powerful, and heavy. As the track builds, the vocals come in with a commanding presence, perfectly matching the chaotic energy of the music. The song has a sharp edge, with its driving rhythm and explosive dynamics, making it one of the album’s more aggressive moments. The interplay between the drums, bass, and guitar creates a sense of urgency, and Zaac’s delivery heightens that tension, giving the track a sense of power and conviction, reminding me very much of Pearl Jam.
Invincible offers a welcome change of pace, slowing things down and offering a more reflective and melodic moment in the album. The track opens with hauntingly beautiful, subdued instrumentation that gradually builds, allowing Zaac’s voice to shine. The slow, deliberate rhythm and melodic lines create a meditative atmosphere, almost as if the song is taking its time to reflect on life’s struggles and triumphs. The standout moment in this track is the addition of the cello in the middle section, provided by Nicholas Tam, which adds a layer of elegance and emotional depth. The cello elevates the mood of the song, allowing the listener to sink into its more introspective tones, making it one of the album’s most emotionally resonant moments.
Breath continues the more subdued atmosphere but with a unique twist. The song begins with the same melancholic mood, featuring the cello again, but this time, it’s accompanied by heavy, slow-burning guitar and vocals. The synths add a subtle, atmospheric layer that perfectly complements the song’s deep, almost haunting quality. The combination of piano and cello creates a rich, textured sound that scratches that emotional itch, blending melancholy with an underlying sense of hope. Zaac’s voice is particularly remarkable here, showcasing his ability to deliver raw, gritty vocals without compromising on tone or control. He sings from his throat in a raspy way that feels completely natural, never strained, allowing him to convey the full emotional weight of the song. The vocal delivery is both beautiful and visceral.
The final track, Atraxia, is a fitting conclusion to the album. It begins softly, with the cello leading the way, accompanied by gentle guitar noodling. The lyrics here are earthy and introspective, evoking imagery of nature and one’s self within the world. As the song progresses, the strings grow heavier and more intense, mirroring the shift in the emotional tone of the track. The layering of instruments and building dynamics create a sense of escalation, drawing the listener in before reaching a satisfying, cathartic climax. This track solidifies the band’s sound and direction, leaving listeners excited for what’s to come in future releases. The song’s emotional depth and musical complexity make it an ideal closer.
Overall, Elements is a well-rounded album that showcases Nonberk‘s versatility. From heavy, gritty rock anthems to reflective, melodic moments, the band navigate a wide range of musical terrain, weaving inspiration from bands that held the torch through the eighties and nineties while staying true to their unique voice. Impressively, Elements was self-produced to a high quality by band members Samuel and Kevin. The tracks I’ve discussed each bring something unique to the table, and together, they form a cohesive body of work that leaves listeners hungry for what the band will do next.
