“Metal Mario” by Adam Nelson: A Fierce Fusion of Gaming Nostalgia and Melodic Power
- Miles Coleman
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
In a year teeming with reboots and remakes, Adam Nelson’s Metal Mario (Cover Ep) rises above the noise, not just as a tribute to classic video game themes but as a daring reimagination. With this latest release, Nelson doesn’t just cover music from Super Mario Bros.; he electrifies it, setting the beloved 8-bit melodies ablaze with a masterstroke of melodic metal intensity. This isn’t a gimmick. It’s a carefully crafted fusion of passion, precision, and raw musical horsepower.
The Metal Mario is born from the crossroads of two lifelong passions: Nelson’s deep love for video games and his years of experience crafting music in his home studio. From the first punchy riff to the final ringing note, this release is a sonic rollercoaster. The standout track, “Super Mario Bros Metal Theme,” channels the chaotic joy of childhood gaming through searing guitar solos and high-octane rhythm. Yet, it never loses sight of its roots. The melody remains recognizably Mario, but dressed in denim, spikes, and thunder.
What’s most compelling about Nelson’s work is how he avoids falling into cliché. While plenty of video game themed covers exist, few feel as immersive, heartfelt, or technically refined. The Metal Mario doesn’t simply ride the wave of nostalgia. It reinvents it. Every note is backed by years of musical craftsmanship and a clear vision to honor the source while exploring bold new sonic terrain. The guitar tones are warm yet fierce, and the arrangements evolve with cinematic flair, building like a boss level and dropping like a fireball.
Recorded entirely in his self described “tiny but powerful” home studio in Columbia Falls, Montana, this project reflects a singular artistic voice. Nelson handles every part of the creative process himself, and it shows. There is no excess or overproduction, just pure, unfiltered musical identity. The EP also hints at a larger universe. Nelson has teased a Zelda inspired project as well, further proof that his creative well runs deep. It is not just nostalgia driving him, but a genuine passion for storytelling through sound.
Whether you are a metalhead, a lifelong gamer, or simply someone chasing new musical experiences, Metal Mario offers a thrilling ride through pixelated memories with the volume cranked to eleven.
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