Nero - 'Welcome Reality' (Mercury) Released: 15/08/11

The sound of dubstep is rapidly becoming no longer the ‘Sound of the Future’ but very much of the present. As its driving force sweeps its way into the charts, one of the most eagerly anticipated dubstep albums of the year is finally upon us. Nero have been at the helm of this tour du force of dubstep for quite some time, and after many setbacks and delays 'Welcome Reality' is finally here and ready to unleash an awe inspiring sound.

Intro track '2808' warms us up for a symphony like you have never heard before, as follow up track 'Doomsday' hits with a floor thumping first bass drop of the album and its mid track piece sounding very alike to a Robert Miles record before the second drop hits you even harder and heavier.

'Guilt' needs no introduction. Its hair raising intro’ and stunning vocals performed by Alana Watson into its first killer bassline is perfectly timed, the song itself has been on our airwaves for well over a couple of months and yet with every listen seeming like the first time.

'Fugue State' is a fast and furious track from the start, which features a punishing synth lead chorus. A track like this needs no heavy bass parts to show of its muscle and as it is on it from the word go, before you know it the tracks finished.

'Me and You' is Nero’s past, present and future. This is 'Welcome Reality’s' heart, and represents everything Nero does best; it’s cinematic introduction and another grand display of vocals by Alana blend together perfectly as we carry on down the albums path into Innocence.

This also is a song which holds very dear to Nero, as its major underground success also helped thrust them into the spotlight and deservedly so; its distinct harmonic and heavy bassline is recognisable amongst all keen dubstep followers and is one of Welcome Reality’s top trumps.

'In the Way' sees Nero almost go back to their roots of when they first began, the track is a simple and yet so catchy and could easily categorise itself as a chillout song, no time for chilling out however as 'Scorpions' introduction is enough to wake anyone from a deep slumber. It is a unique track and it alters its pace and sound with its background vocals sounding like a record being played backwards and with a double heavy bassline conclusion, this could definitely be a fan favourite in the making.

'Must be the Feeling' is the sound of an 80s electro pop tune put into a 21st century Nero blender and you know what? It isn’t half bad either!

Speaking of 80s electro pop songs given a 21st makeover, fans of Hall & Oates will certainly have something to say about the song Reaching Out and if you don’t know what we are talking about, listen to the song 'Out of Touch' by Hall & Oates and you shall see.

'Promises', is the latest appetiser of 'Welcome Realit'y and of course it is nothing short of brilliant. Another grand chorus display by Alana, with every beat and pieces put together with such great precision. Alas, 'Departur'e marks the end of 'Welcome Reality' and it send it off in great style with a solemn synth display to bid farewell.

In conclusion, 'Welcome Reality' is destined for glory. It’s a superb mix of ferocious breakdowns of basslines, stunning synth lead harmonies and angelic sounding vocals, this is not you’re average two bit dubstep album. Through their success, Nero has gained a very diverse mix of fans and somehow they have delivered just the right dose to keep every one of them satisfied. Nero are not finished by a long shot.