From Napalm Records comes the new album, Argia, by Diabulus In Musica (The Devil In Music) which is quite the assault on the senses. Formed back in 2006, this is the Spanish, symphonic metal band’s third studio album. Following a major change in the lineup to over half the band, the current members create a strong sound that definitely has appealing factors to fans of this style. Though at times the keyboards are more reminiscent of New Romantic/Synth pop, the drums, bass and guitars offer a tight, palatable familiarity.
The vocals on the album might be a little much for some people to take in, especially newcomers to the band. The operatic vocals of Zuberoa Aznarez are mixed with the growling death metal voice of keyboardist Gorka Elso. But this isn’t the deep, attitude driven, balls out, growls that metal fans get from its greats, like Lamb Of God’s Randy Blythe, Devil Driver’s Dez Fafara or Amon Amarth’s Johan Hegg. With all due respect, Elso’s growling voice is most akin to the voice of the demon Angela in the iconic 80’s slasher film, Night of the Demons. Or for those who do not know that reference, imagine The Muppet’s, Animal, after a weeklong bender. And for that to duet with Aznarez’s enchanting voice, it becomes overkill and borderline, laughable.
And in the immortal words of Monty Python, “now for something completely different,” a couple tracks have guest vocals, including “Encounter At Chronos’ Maze” featuring Thomas Vikstrom of Therion and Stormwind. This song sounds like a duet between Christine Day and The Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of The Opera - With of course a special guest appearance from the demonic growlings of Night of the Demons’ Angela.
Now before any fan of the band tries to tear me a new one, I always give credit where credit is due. And with the production value through the roof, impressive and catchy guitar hooks and Aznarez’s sultry voice, Diabulus In Musica will not lose any fans from this album. In fact it will probably strengthen the support from their fan base with what they will no doubt call a masterpiece.
Though definitely not for me, it is well made and I get why those who like it, will love it. So it doesn’t deserve a bad rating, I just don’t feel it will bring in too many new fans, especially in North America and doesn’t offer anything new to the table.
Ryan Andrews, HMS
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