Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Devil You Know The Beauty Of Destruction Company: Nuclear Blast Release: 2014 Genre: Metalcore Reviewer: Troy Cole

Solid debut album

Devil You Know, the almost supergroup out of California, is the brainchild of drummer John Sankey (Devolved, Divine Heresy, Fear Factory) and guitarist Francesco Artusato (All Shall Perish, Hiss of Atrocities). The most well-known member is of course Howard Jones formerly of Killswitch Engage and yet still you have the talents of bassist Ryan Wombacher (Bleeding Through) and guitarist Roy Lev-Ari. Together they have crafted an immensely rich sound full of diversity. This new outlet shows off the talent and background of each member along with a chemistry that usually doesn't present itself on a debut.

Starting things off we have the aptly titled "A New Beginning" which showcases the vocal versatility of Jones and the powerhouse that Sankey and Artusato can be combined. Artusato exhibits his soloing ability on "For The Dead and Broken" and "My Own" along with some soulful verses from Jones on the latter. Their blend of metalcore and melodic death metal shine in "Seven Years Alone" and "Shut It Down". "It's Over" is one of the slower songs in the album and a standout due to the multiple layers of instruments and vocals. One of the heaviest songs on the album "A Mind Insane" is another exceptional track that is relentless throughout with parts that elicit shades of the Swedish metal scene. Followed up by "Crawl From the Dark" that has an underlying Tears for Fears vibe and yet remains another distinguished cut.

Most detractors will say it's a poor man's Killswitch Engage but they just haven't given it enough time and honestly "The Beauty Of Destruction" took several listens before I thought otherwise. Given the talent of Artusato and the energy of Sankey this band thrives at developing well-crafted and balanced anthems that challenge the best in the genre. Consequently, Devil You Know furnishes a solid debut album rife with groove and harmonies that stick with you all day begging to be heard again.