A History of Nomadic Behavior cover

A History of Nomadic Behavior

Eyehategod · 2021

41 min · 12 tracks · sludge metal

A relentless blend of heavy riffs and anguished howls that capture the essence of life's chaotic struggles.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Built Beneath the Lies — Opening with a fierce energy, this track encapsulates the band's struggle against deceit and disillusionment, setting a confrontational tone for the album.
  • →
    Current Situation — The track's slow build culminates in a cathartic release, mirroring the frustrations of living through tumultuous times while providing a glimpse into personal hardships.
  • →
    The Trial of Johnny Cancer — This song stands out with its chilling narrative about mortality and suffering, employing sharp lyrical storytelling that reflects the band's gritty aesthetic.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends heavy riffs with emotional intensity, showcasing strong songwriting and production choices.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a consistent tempo with aggressive riffs and harsh vocals, while the second half introduces more varied dynamics and slower sections.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt transitions between sections, creating a jarring effect that mirrors the themes of chaos and struggle.
  • The album closes with a nearly seven-minute track that gradually builds in intensity before fading out, leaving a lingering sense of unresolved tension.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • relentless energy for chaotic moments
  • cathartic releases of pent-up frustration
  • short bursts of raw intensity
  • dark reflections on personal struggles

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer soothing, melodic sounds
  • seek lighthearted, uplifting music

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'A History of Nomadic Behavior' was released in 2021, Eyehategod had re-established their presence following a lengthy hiatus since their last album, 'New Orleans Is the New Vietnam' in 2014. This album marked a return to form for the band, showcasing their signature sludge metal sound while reflecting on personal and collective trauma shaped by the pandemic and social upheaval.
Stylistic neighbors
Crowbar· Acid Bath· Down

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Built Beneath the Lies 3:33
  • 2 The Outer Banks 2:31
  • 3 Fake What's Yours 3:38
  • 4 Three Black Eyes 2:27
  • 5 Current Situation 4:41
  • 6 High Risk Trigger 4:17
  • 7 Anemic Robotic 2:44
  • 8 The Day Felt Wrong 3:57
  • 9 The Trial of Johnny Cancer 4:25
  • 10 Smoker's Piece 1:11
  • 11 Circle of Nerves 3:47
  • 12 Every Thing, Every Day 4:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata