Nothing - a short history of decay

Known for their revolving door policy, this time around Nothing frontman Nicky Palermo and guitarist Doyle Martin are joined by drummer Zachary Jones, Best Coast’s Bobb Bruno on bass, and Cam Smith on guitar. It’s the latter trio’s first time on a Nothing release, but they come together to make what could become the most complete iteration of the band yet.

‘A Short History Of Decay’ presents as a confrontation of the past: grunge-infused opener ‘Never Come Never Morning’ tackles Nicky’s abusive father, while the record is bookended by ‘Essential Tremors’, on which he writes about his genetic neurological condition. This heavy sandwich is filled by what’s largely classic Nothing - the shoegazey sound they’ve made their name on - but that also cherry picks a few further influences. Take ‘Cannibal World’, which is equal parts industrial and baggy over its familiar template. Or the touching ‘Essential Tremors’, on which Nicky’s own tremors can be heard at times in his vocal - opting not to hide their existence across the record - and it makes for something refreshingly intimate. Another tender moment comes courtesy of ‘The Rain Don’t Care’, and its following number ‘Purple Strings’, making for one of the album’s strongest points.

A real insight into Nicky Palermo’s mind, ‘A Short History of Decay’ is one of Nothing’s most inward-looking releases to date.