In the Beginning (Nile album)

"In the Beginning" is a compilation album by the American technical death metal band Nile. Released in 2000 on Relapse Records, it serves as a collection of the band's early works, prior to their signing with larger labels. The album comprises primarily demo material and EPs, offering a glimpse into Nile's formative years and the evolution of their signature sound, which blends brutal death metal with themes of ancient Egyptian history and mythology.

The tracks featured on "In the Beginning" often showcase a rawer, more unpolished production quality compared to their later full-length albums. However, the core elements of Nile's musical style – complex and intricate guitar riffs, rapid-fire drumming, guttural vocals, and lyrical themes centered on ancient Egypt – are already present. The compilation is considered a valuable resource for fans interested in the band's history and the development of their unique sound. It provides a context for understanding their later, more polished and widely recognized releases. The album generally includes tracks from the "Festivals of Atonement" demo (1995), the "Ramses Bringer of War" EP (1997), and other early recordings.