ALBUM REVIEW: Demons – Savage Messiah
It only feels a matter of moments since UK metallers SAVAGE MESSIAH brought their fourth studio album Hands Of Fate to the masses at the back end of 2017 and here we are once more. The follow up Demons is available now via Century Media Records, can the inspired quartet continue to build on their recent success?
Virtue Signal thunders into your gaze with punishing drum work and an electric tempo. Frontman Dave Silver‘s signature melodic tone makes for memorable chorus lines to coincide with the energetic pace. What Dreams May Come gracefully glides along with its accessible, emotive nature. It may not pack as much of a punch as what we have come to expect from SAVAGE MESSIAH but the skill is still evident as impressive solo work is displayed in spades. Heretic In The Modern World leans to a darker vibe with crunchy riffing and an alluring presence. The tracks thus far have definitely been constructed with the stage in mind, providing a variety of opportunities for each member to shine and whip the crowd up into a frenzy.
Parachute takes a more relaxed, radio friendly approach focusing mainly on the vocal lines as it’s key facet. The uplifting lyrical content proves to be particularly cathartic but there is still time to throw in an enticing solo. Under No Illusions sees a reprisal of the signature SAVAGE MESSIAH thrash metal tones which brought them to the dance in the first place. Controlled bursts of energy are unleashed picking up the intensity alongside the addition of another inviting chorus and gang chants which are crying out for participation. Down And Out feels like a brick to the face as jabbing riffs get your head bobbing along. A sturdy drum beat continuously hits that sweet spot as the guitars join forces with intriguing melodies. The Lights Are Going Out hits the brakes, choosing to take a more purposeful stride and clean tones, focusing once more on the vocals as the centrepiece. Groove ridden guitar work amplifies the dramatic mood.
The Bitter Truth injects some adrenaline into proceedings with rapid thrash infused riffing as Silver displays his high pitched vocal prowess. Breakneck drumming and adept solo work unite to provide one of the stand out tracks on Demons. Until The Shadows Fall allows for a moment of contemplation as the smooth rhythm and potent vocal segments possess all the captivating hallmarks of a single release. Rise Then Fall opens with flourishing lead work and hard hitting shredding right out of the gate ensuring the energy stays at optimum levels teeing up the burly riffing that opens Steal The Faith In Me. The final track ebbs and flows between melody and heaviness to keep you guessing until the final moments which descend into a boisterous breakdown to cap off the journey.
As the years have progressed SAVAGE MESSIAH have thrown caution to the wind and have not been afraid to get experimental with their sound. Demons is packed to the brim with a variety of alluring elements. Whether it is the enticing thrash infused riffing or hook fuelled chorus there is plenty on show to appreciate. They seem to have found the right balance of introducing new styles whilst still remaining in a similar ball park to what has helped shape their fan base but going forward they may need to consider being careful of casting their net too far afield with risk of alienating their following they’ve worked so hard to acquire.
Rating: 8/10
Demons is available now via Century Media Records
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