Necronomicon Ex Mortis and the Rising Tide of Horror-Infused Metal
Chicago-based death metal band Necronomicon Ex Mortis, formed in 2023, is carving a niche for itself by blending brutal musicianship with a distinctly horror-themed aesthetic. The band, comprised of Michael Nystrom Bala (guitar), Manuel Barbara (guitar), Yusuf Rashid (bass), Joey Ferretti (drums), and John Sawicki (vocals), is gaining recognition for its unique sound, drawing comparisons to both classic death metal acts and the cinematic stylings of horror masters.
The Convergence of Metal and Horror
Necronomicon Ex Mortis isn’t operating in a vacuum. A growing trend sees metal bands increasingly incorporating horror themes into their music, artwork, and overall presentation. This isn’t simply about lyrical content; it’s a holistic approach that aims to create a fully immersive experience for the listener. The band’s latest EP, “Zombie Blood Nightmare,” released February 20, 2026, exemplifies this, pairing aggressive riffs with spoken-word passages reminiscent of horror narratives.
Technical Skill Meets B-Movie Aesthetics
Michael Nystrom Bala, the band’s guitarist and songwriter, describes the music as “80s shred + 90s riffs and all wrapped in a cheesy B horror movie.” This combination is key to their appeal. The band’s sound isn’t solely focused on brutality; it showcases technical proficiency, with influences ranging from classic death metal bands like Death, to shred guitarists like Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert, and Marty Friedman. This blend attracts a dedicated fanbase of both metalheads and horror enthusiasts.
The Band’s Origins and Influences
Necronomicon Ex Mortis originated from a previous project that dissolved, leaving Michael Nystrom Bala with a collection of songs. He then enlisted metal friends from Berklee to bring his vision to life. The band’s name itself is a nod to the iconic “Evil Dead” film series, reflecting a deep appreciation for B-horror cinema. Their influences extend beyond music and film, encompassing horror novels, video games, and comic books.
The Chicago Metal Scene and Beyond
Based in Chicago, Necronomicon Ex Mortis benefits from a diverse and active metal scene. The city regularly hosts performances by major metal acts, providing a supportive environment for emerging bands. However, the band’s appeal extends beyond its local scene, reaching a global audience through platforms like Bandcamp and social media.
Future Trends in Horror-Infused Metal
Several factors suggest the horror-metal crossover will continue to grow. The enduring popularity of horror franchises, the rise of streaming services offering a wider range of horror content, and a general cultural fascination with the macabre all contribute to this trend. Expect to observe more bands experimenting with incorporating narrative elements, sound effects, and visual aesthetics inspired by horror films and literature.
the increasing accessibility of music production tools allows bands to create more elaborate and immersive soundscapes. This could lead to the development of subgenres that blend metal with specific horror tropes, such as cosmic horror, slasher films, or gothic horror.
Necronomicon Ex Mortis’s Discography
As of February 2026, Necronomicon Ex Mortis has released six EPs, including “Zombie Blood Nightmare.” The EP tracklist is as follows:
- “Left To Die” (4’51)
- “No More Room In Hell” (5’18)
- “Chopped Up And Burned” (7’00)
- “Lumbering Blood Sucking Freaks” (3’42)
- “Hungry For Brains” (4’42)
- “Demoni” (3’15)
Pro Tip
Explore the band’s Bandcamp page (https://necronomiconexmortis.bandcamp.com/music) to discover their full discography and support the band directly.
FAQ
Q: What genre is Necronomicon Ex Mortis?
A: They play death metal with strong influences from 80s shred and a horror theme.
Q: Where is the band from?
A: They are based in Chicago, Illinois.
Q: What are some of the band’s influences?
A: Influences include Arsis, Dethklok, Black Dahlia Murder, Racer X, and classic death metal bands like Suffocation and Dying Fetus.
Q: Where can I discover their music?
A: Their music is available on Bandcamp and other streaming platforms.
Did you realize? Michael Nystrom Bala first became interested in music after receiving a guitar as a Christmas gift and discovering Joe Satriani’s “Surfing with the Alien.”
Stay connected with Necronomicon Ex Mortis through their official website, Bandcamp, and Facebook page. What are your favorite horror-themed metal bands? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
