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Progressive Metal Band Nok Novum Shares Adventurous and Stream of Consciousness LP, ‘Nok Novum II’

August 26, 2024
William Brookson
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Canadian instrumental band, Nok Novum, are embracing their diverse range of influences and dynamism as a progressive metal group on their long awaited sophomore album, II. Recorded over several years, II finds the band leaning into the production value of their 2015 singles, while reflecting the creativity of the writing seen in their 2012 debut, a fusion of 70s progressive rock, jazz-fusion, and heavy metal.

“Being that we’re an instrumental band, we really have no desire necessarily to abide by conventions, in terms of songwriting and song structure, which really cultivates creativity and allows ideas to flow freely,” explains co-founder and drummer, Brady Mason.

II features the sinister and wide ranging focus track, “Ominous Kyle,” which is energizing as much as it is unnerving. “This is a good one to head bang to if you’re into that!” says Mason.
“Ominous Kyle” is that frightening figure that plays a recurring role in your nightmares. He’s haunting, morbid, terrifying, and you just can’t shake him out. The track was written as a stream of energetic passages punctuated with a motif that’s hammering nature draws you in early in the track and repeats throughout. Tonally, this track has an eerie, nightmarish quality.
  1. What did you enjoy most about the recording process of this new release?

How it took nearly 10 years! No sorry that was the least fun part. Although with that came a lot of evolution of our tastes and our approach to the songs, so you hear a lot of development of the same piece of music over the years. 

  1. Share a nugget of advice that has resonated with you most over the years.

Do exactly what feels right to you and this will result in the most authentic sound. Don’t concern yourself with trends, or resorting to overtly conscious influences, just feel the music and trust your gut.

  1. Who would be your dream artist/band to co-headline a tour with?

Oof. That is tough but I am going to have to go with Opeth – I just want to see if Mikael Åkerfeldt practices his standup set off stage or not.

  1. What sets your music apart from others in your genre?

I think we strike a great balance of simplicity in our songs. We aren’t concerned with being overly technical, we just want it to sound interesting. And sometimes simple is the most interesting.

  1. Tell us what your favourite song is at the moment and why.

Guess by Charli xcx feat. Billie Eilish obviously. Because what else could it possibly be right now.

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