[news] Hungarian band NEEDLESS release acclaimed new album "Premonition"
Hungarian progressive death metal band Needless have released their fourth studio album, Premonition (Inertial Music, 2025), a dynamic and emotionally resonant work that has been earning growing recognition for its balance between technical precision and expressive depth.
Critical Acclaim:
Metal Temple states:
"Premonition is a breathtaking display of technicality and emotion that demands full attention from start to finish."
Myth of Rock praises the intricate arrangements and dynamic interplay:
"The album is a masterclass in progressive death metal, with every riff and solo pushing the boundaries of the genre."
Athenaeum of Sin emphasizes the emotional depth:
"The band delivers an album that is as emotionally profound as it is technically impressive, striking a perfect balance that few bands can achieve."The track-by-track analysis by guitarist Katona Kristóf reveals the creative process behind this landmark release:
Track-by-Track Breakdown by Katona Kristóf:
1. Derelict
An extremely energetic opening track that immediately sets Premonition apart from previous albums. The dual guitars work in flawless harmony, creating a catchy chorus that stays with you long after the song ends. Though technically challenging—as is the entire album—the musical transitions flow effortlessly.
2. Metatrons in Sunken Arks
In my opinion, this is the album’s standout track. From the very beginning, an euphoric and overflowing energy hits you. This song presented the biggest technical challenge for me, yet it’s impossible not to enjoy. Each riff pulls you deeper, and just when you think you can catch your breath, the intensity doubles. The experience is made even grander by the two guitars competing to outdo each other with solos.
3. Twilight Cradle
The song accompanied by the official music video. While the first two tracks are energetic explosions, this track begins to reveal the album’s true depths. It’s the most complex piece on the album, yet it never feels dull. For me, it’s like a great film: watching it multiple times reveals new layers and interpretations.
4. Constellations
I see a pairing here: Derelict-Metatrons and Twilight-Constellations. The standout feature for me in this song is how well the instruments work together. This will likely become a hallmark of the album—something that might not be obvious to listeners initially but will be visually impressive on stage—where one guitar always answers the other’s melodic inserts or grand solos.
5. As Our Citadels Burn
Perhaps the simplest track on the album, but in the best sense of the word. The black metal influence here is a refreshing addition to the Needless sound. Sometimes, simplicity is the greatest strength; this track relentlessly crushes through the listener, making it an excellent complement to the rest of the album.
6. Dark Epiphany
From one perspective, Dark Epiphany is the emotional counterpart to Metatrons in Sunken Arks. It lacks the frenetic speed and grind but stands as an epic piece you can’t stop nodding your head to.
7. The Outer Reach
This track brings back the headbanging groove of Dark Epiphany but with a heavier, more pounding feel. For me, it’s the album’s grim, mouth-downturned headbang anthem.
8. Worlds Forgotten, Dreams Undone
Just as Derelict bursts through the door, Worlds Forgotten, Dreams Undone offers a flawless resolution. It’s a very diverse song containing a grey melancholy that simultaneously evokes joy and sorrow. Listening through the album and this track, you’re forced to pause and reflect on what just happened. Once again, the dual guitars’ synergy is captivating. When this song ends, you’re left with a “So what now?” feeling.
"Premonition" is an album meant to be heard as a full piece. That’s why the band chose to play it live from beginning to end at the release show, something you don’t see happening much anymore.
Links:
Needless: https://linktr.ee/needless_metal
Ryan T. Hancock: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.t.hancock
Inertial Music: https://www.facebook.com/inertialmusiclabel
No Silence Studios: https://www.facebook.com/nosilencestudios
Stray Heart Records: https://www.facebook.com/strayheartrecords