There is a whole lot of talk these days about originality,
about pushing the boundaries of modern music into
hitherto unknown realms. A lot of talk, very little
truth to the hype. But in the case of DEADSOUL TRIBE,
originality comes second nature. These guys are as
unique as a band can get, without traversing into
the simply absurd (AQUABATS anyone?) For lack of a
better term, DEADSOUL TRIBE’s music has been
described as “progressive metal” in the
past, and that most certainly rings true, as the definition
of “progressive” is “favoring or
advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform”,
but the label of progressive also suggests certain
tenants of structure and sound that we’ve grown
accustomed to and thereby expect. You hear “progressive
metal” and you know what your in for. Well let
me tell you buddy, in regards to “A Lullaby
of the Devil” you don’t know squat.
The band’s previous 4 efforts have been described
as “tribal metal”, as there has been great
emphasis on percussion, and primitive/world music
influences, but this time around the band decided
to mix things up a bit and turn their tried and true
original formula upside down. Vocalist and head musical
madman Devon Graves (a.k.a. Buddy Lackey of PSYCHOTIC
WALTZ) describes the new album’s sound as thus:
“I suppose my singing might be the sole remaining
trademark. But… this album is specifically created
with the effort to leave all the possible known trademarks
behind and hopefully create new ones. … I really
believe that the DeadSoul fans will be quite surprised
at this album.” As for any possible comparisons
to the sound? Take JETHRO TULL, QUEENSRYCHE, TOOL,
ALICE IN CHAINS and PINK FLOYD and mix ‘em all
vigorously and you get… well there’s no
telling, but I dare say it’d sound something
like “A Lullaby for the Devil”.
In relation to previous efforts, this time around
there just seems to be *more*. More aggression (particularly
in Graves’ vocals), more progressive elements,
and a considerably more extensive amount of Graves’
formidable flute playing. There are so many facets
and layers to this album, that each listen brings
with it a new discovery and appreciation for the effort,
skill and creativity that went into it’s making.
Devon admits “It is really the most fully-cooked
album I have ever made”. Fully cooked, and friggan
delicious, I’d say!
Bottom line: Lush and deeply textured “A Lullaby
for the Devil” is an organic and avant-garde
expression of modern metal, brilliant, creative and
superbly executed. There truly is a fine line between
insanity and genius, and it seems DEADSOUL TRIBE traverse
that line with consummate grace.
Key Tracks: “Goodby City Life”; “Lost
In You”; “The Gossamer Strand”;
“A Lullaby For The Devil”
Reviewed by Farron Watson |
