Devilz By Definition – ‘The Bitter Remains of Human Consumption’ EP (Self-Released)

By Phil Cooper

Having formed in 2010, Canada’s Devilz by Definition have reshaped and regrown numerous times over the years. Despite a revolving door of musicians and an instrumental line-up change, they have consistently created and put forth catchy and engaging groove led metal that has captivated their local scene and wherever they have had the opportunity to play. Over the last decade, they have delivered two other EPs and a full-length album with each recording having received critical acclaim for both their song writing and energetic delivery. Their latest three track EP looks to capitalize on the previous endeavours and provide a loud statement from the current incarnation of the band.

Kicking off with ‘Peace by Piece’, we’re introduced to an immediate groove laced sound that engages from the foundation of the rhythm section to the chunky guitar riffs. The vocals round out the sound with a deep-toned rasp akin to Lamb of God that matches the musical delivery. The sum of the parts of the track work together seamlessly to deliver a hard-hitting introduction to the stylistic delivery of Devilz… It is hard to resist the intensity and as the track continues it is increasingly apparent as to why the band have been able to generate the fan base that they have. While the style is not uncommon in today’s metal scene, it is always refreshing to find a band that can deliver it with their own stamp and do it well.

The feeling of engagement and intensity is carried through into ‘Time is Near’. Employing a similar groove led structure but shifting the time signature, the band have created a more brooding number that is laden with hooks and riffs that will certainly generate a stir in the pit. They’ve clearly got a command on their chosen style and employ all of the relevant stylistic elements to showcase their song writing talents and keep their sound fresh. Closing track ‘Bitter Remains’ follows the same format of groove led intensity. Solid, well defined hooks and riffs backed up by a powerhouse rhythm section. Guitar driven melodies accentuate the hard-edge vocals, and everything works together to serve up a wall of metal that encapsulates this faction of metal. ‘Bitter Remains’ certainly serves up a “we want more” element, rounding out the EP perfectly. Even offering up some dual guitar interplay which only adds another weapon to an already impressive arsenal for the execution of their sound.

The mix of the EP works well. We’re offered a well-rounded sound allowing all instrumentation to be clearly identified with no muddying. The vocals cut through with clarity so that the duality of the lyrics focussing on both the fractured nature of humanity but also, it’s potential for hope and unity are easy to pick out. The rhythm section takes prominence in the song writing by being the drive for the groove foundation. The mix accentuates this by providing a solid boost to the low end. However, the fine balance is met with the guitars. They complement the rhythmic power being offered scope to flesh out texture of the lower ends, yet the melody and lead lines are given the high-end room to be clearly discernible.

Overall, for a slice of what Devilz by Definition are about and what they are capable of, the three tracks of ‘The Bitter Remains of Human Consumption’ hit the mark. We’re given a slab of highly engaging and well-crafted groove metal that will appeal to a wide cross-section of metal fans. It’s a glimpse of what more is to come from these guys and will certainly generate some excitement for future releases.

‘The Bitter Remains of Human Consumption’ is out now. You can get your copy HERE.

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