Dani Filth clearly knows what he likes, and doesn’t really deviate from it ever too often. Sometimes an artist’s work reflects their interest far too much, over pumping the audience with too much of the same thing. In the case of the new Devilment record II – The Mephisto Waltzes (Nuclear Blast), it finds itself in an odd middle; while admittedly nothing musically mind-blowing, it is a fun as hell ride to partake on.
With Dani heading the band there isn’t too much that rings close to a Cradle of Filth sound. If there is anything remotely close, it is in the beat by beat vocal flow that he’ll tackle when it comes to speedier sections in songs. This is more prominent in tracks like “Shine On Sophie Moone”. The band actually has more in common with acts like The 69 Eyes (while obviously more intense, and far less poppy). It is a strong example to give you an idea of the playfulness in the lyricism, as well as instrumental structure that the music follows from start to finish.
Which honestly, is the selling point to II – The Mephisto Waltzes. This album is ungodly catchy in the best way. From the minute opening track “Judas Stein” starts, it is a fun run all the way to the end. What makes this possible is the fun horror lyricism (like “Hitchcock Blonde”), and strong vocals of both Dani and Lauren Francis. The tracks where they are together are dangerously addictive (such as “Under The Thunder” and “Full Dark, No Stars”). This energy can be found within the instrumentals as well, but more of an aura then technicality. It is fair to say that the instrumentals are just average quality at best; while never coming off “bad”, just “good” enough to get by. If anything were to stand out it is when there are any bits of shredding or hefty moments of gothic-like note effects. These elements are the most recognizable in the pre-mentioned “Judas Stein” and in “Life Is What You Keep From The…”.
Perhaps Devilment wasn’t aiming for fun, but that is what they succeeded in. You won’t find crazy time signatures, dynamic ranges in vocalization, or prog anything. What you will get out of II – The Mephisto Waltzes is a pure trip of dark bliss. If it hasn’t been made clear yet, the instrumental aspect to this album is quite simple, and more geared towards a niche crowd. And while it is a fun record, it never achieves anything beyond that (which again depending on the listener can be a huge positive, or straight up negative). One will know if this is really meant for them within three songs to be honest. But for those who are already fans, there is enough here to keep them entertained. This record is a goth rock/metal treat with terrific hooks and overall catchiness sure to at least grant a smile out of its whimsical nature. While the direction of the goal is blurred, what Devilment achieve is a good time.
Score: 6.5
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