By DJ Monk
Swiss quintet DevilsBridge are very much a new entity, as far as both Über Rock and the wider Überverse are concerned, as they have just two previous single releases, at the end of last year and the beginning of this, before presenting us collectively with this, their debut EP – which, rather cleverly, does not feature either of the two aforementioned singles but rather contains another six new tracks for our approval.
Kicking in with a massive bass sound that drives opener ‘555’ from the speakers with the fury of a man named Tyson exploding from his corner, it is quickly obvious that DavilsBridge’s main asset is front woman Dani Neil, who has a rich voice which perfectly complements the dense, progressive-tinged groove which the band purvey. Vocally, she lies somewhere between the melody of Doro and the aggression of Angela Gossow (without the death growls, it has to be emphasized), and she obviously has a pretty impressive range, even if she reins it in to suit the darker miens of this sextet of songs.
The four musicians are no slouches either: as intimated above, the bass lines are simply massive, although, like the rest of the instruments, they are pulled back when the need for a more atmospheric tone is foremost in the musical minds. The drums are precise and measured, filling out the sound and, again, pulling back with ease and laconic alacrity, while the twins guitars bounce perfectly off each other, producing neat, winding riffs with plenty of power behind them but at the same time paying heed to the impact of the melodies and harmonies. And the solos offered up are definitely an exemplar of the case that less most definitely can be more.
‘Endless Restless’ certainly packs a declarative punch. It’s impressively tight in every department, from the songwriting and structuring through to the collective and individual performances, which is turn are aided by a very warm and sympathetic production, which accentuates the EP’s power while also drawing out its every nuance. A highly impressive debut. I for one look forward to hearing more.
- ‘Endless Restless’ is out now. You can get your copy HERE.
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