The Nexus

The Nexus is the second album, crossing clean vocals, growls, electronic texture and heavy guitar at high speed. Released in March 2013, again produced by Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios in Denmark, with cover art by Gustavo Sazes. Because the multiple voices change roles from song to song, big contrasts arise even within short running times. Elize Ryd was touring with Kamelot around this time, and the band's profile was steadily rising. Not setting the poppily opening melody against metal's weight but pulling them into one fierce hook is the core of this record. A near-future theme suggesting transhumanism runs through it, with “Afterlife,” “Invincible,” “Burn With Me” and “Stardust” leading. Olof Mörck said the contrasts were greater and the genre blends more provocative. It reached No. 6 at home and No. 4 in Finland, and it's also the last album with Andy Solveström. A record that resonates with anyone wanting modern metal's speed and memorable singing at once.