Neil Bolton checks out the new log awaited album from the mighty Devastator! Here’s what he thinks!!

There is a lot of excitement and expectation revolving around Devastator’s new album, “Conjurers Of Cruelty” 

A lot of that excitement and expectation includes me..Ever since the blackened thrash monster “Baptised in Blasphemy” crawled into our world the band’s fan base has been steadily growing, ensuring it is not just me that awaits this release. 

After an atmospheric opener the warm comforting sound of Satanic intent graces the speakers. The title track’s blackened thrash music angrily infects the listener; something fans will be happy about. 

Its not long before the first triumphant guitar solo soars into place and cements this fine blend of modern and traditional metal.

The traditional sound does not subside with the onset of the next tune “Black Witchery”. It’s dark, nasty, fast, and very, very cool. Full on head banging magic is now in full force. More guitar work shines its black light on the scene, while the riff bounces around like an early Hetfield composition. 

The filthy song writing continues into the next track and indeed bleeds into the whole album. 

Tracks such as “Walpurgisnacht” contain the correct amount of punk attitude to make you pogo while banging your head. Again an impressive guitar solo flavours the song, while the fast beat pushes the tune along. 

Painful screams begin “Necromantic Lust” and the speed elevates once again. This head down, no messing around attitude to the music is most welcome. 

We slow down for an evil moment to let the blacker side of Devastator take the limelight. The vocals seem to have more of a wicked air to them in this song,  then a nice vomit growl introduces the thrash back to the table and the head begins to go once more. 

The speed and precision continues through the next three tracks slicing throats and kicking in teeth. 

The sound of Devastator has been honed into a very fine heavy metal machine. There are excellent song writing skills on show, along with precise musicianship along the way. This blend of the traditional sound that started it all, along with the black satanic sound and aggression is exemplary. 

This is another modern interpretation of metal that needs to be in everyone’s ears.

Devastator – Conjurers Of Cruelty is out in the 1st March 2024 via Listenable Records