Devastating Enemy - The Fallen Prophet

What we have here is a fresh, 2011 release by an Austrian band. Their style could primairly be described as technical death metal, full of rich melodies. Add some thrash parts and the blend is complete. Their influences naturally come from the Swedish melodic death metal pioneers, such as Dark Tranquility,or even At The Gates. The only prior knowledge that I had, concerning Austrian death metal, was Pungent Stench. And also, Disharmonic Orchestra.

These young Austrians though,share nothing with the bands mentioned above,as their approach is entirely different.The album starts off with the homonymous track.From the beginning we are greeted with a barrage of blast-beats,technical riffs and angry,shouting vocals.What is also apparent,is the band's capability in mixing thrash-like grooves and melodic solos in order to complete their deal.The juxtaposition of fast-paced parts along with meloduous,mid-tempo passages is evidently apparent throughout this cd.Their second assault,the dramatically titled "Fall Of Icarus"begins with a thrashing groove,entwined with strong,well played riffs. I think that by now,you get the picture of what Devastating Enemy present here:quality melodic death metal,contrived of strong musicianship,technicalities and also thrash points/elements.Personally, I would not regard myself as a fan of these genres,since I prefer my death metal being raw and attavistic.But this band certainly is in fine form and their songs sound much better compared to the dozens of uninspired progressive/technical/whatever death metal groups.Even more so,their thrash outbursts reminded me of the mighty Demolition Hammer at times.And that certainly is a great refference.

I am sure that fans of The Haunted,At the Gates and the rest will enjoy this one.In my opinion,if they stick to the thrash parts that are so central to their sonic foundry,their next one will be a masterpiece for sure.For now,I am pleasantly surprised.

Tracklist:
1)The Fallen Prophet
2)Icarus Fall
3)Psycho
4)As Bloodshed Begins
5)Buried In Oblivion
6)The Saint And The Heretic
7)The Purity Paradigm
8)Inhale The Innocense
9)Your Ravenous Greed
10)Sculpture Of Sorrow
11)I Surrender

7/10  Isabelle S.