Dealing With Demons Volume II
Review Score: 8
Reviewed by: Jim Harrison
Groove metal kings , DevilDriver have returned releasing their much anticipated second instalment of their Dealing With Demons saga with part II . This is their tenth full length album spanning an impressive career of over two decades.
DWDII continues where they left off in part I and is a much heavier album of the two . This album not only captures their signature groove metal vibe that they are known for but also incorporates thrash, hints of black/ death metal and has a definite punk influence sprinkled throughout it. Vocalist Dez Fafara’s trademark voice is in top form and he is ferocious, not letting up, grabbing a hold of you right through to the last track.
The opening track “ I have No Pity “ has that groove metal sound, very catchy and gets you started with a strong first track. This leads into “ Mantra”, which leads into a more darker sound, great digs and thundering kick drums. Track three “ Nothing Lasts Forever” gets you to think the pace is slowing only to burst into some massive thrash riffs making it one of the heavier track on the album. The starting dual guitar riffs on “Summoning “ sends this track into a heavy groove that Dez really punches the vocals on , classic DeviDriver. “ Through The Depths” starts with a cool acoustic piece and than rips into heavy thrash leading into the next track “ Bloodbath” which is my favourite track on the album and is a headbangers dream with those killer hooks and pounding drums, I can see this becoming a live show staple to their set list. “ It’s A Hard Truth” flows as the seventh track not letting up the vocals assault and leads into the track “ If Blood is Life” where Dez Fafara again showcases his strong vocals . This track again slows things down slightly than attacks with a vengeance, this is another track that would be a great addition to their live show. The last track “ This Relationship is Broken “ ends the album on a high with another heavy track with the chorus repeating NO EASY WAY OUT.
This album is pure evidence that metal is alive and well in 2023 and not only will long time fans embrace this album but this would also be a great introduction to their catalog for new fans.
At just over 36 minutes long with nine tracks The musicianship and vocals are fantastic and keeps the listener wanting more with the “ tweaking” of their groove metal formula and adding so many more metal elements really showcasing DevilDriver’s maturity and relevance.
Dez Fafara- Vocals
Mike Spreitzer- Guitar
John Miller- Bass
Alex Lee- Guitar
Davier Perez- Drums