Since their debut album, Sin You Sinners, which was crammed with sub-three-minute punk-ish rock with panache and titles such as the raucous ‘Coitus Interuptus (From a Priest)’ or the genius of ‘Shaking Stan’s Balls’ – the powerful Naples-based duo that is The Devils have been frantically entertaining with their energetic rock-based music.
They have a new album out called Let The World Burn Down which “is dedicated to all the Brothers and Sisters who have had enough of Humanity.” It includes some surprising covers: ‘Big City Lights’ by Cleo Randle from 1966, ‘Teddy Boy Boogie’ by Crazy Cavan ‘n’ The Rhythm Rockers, now called ’Teddy Girl Boogie,’ one would assume in honour of drummer Erika Switchblade who certainly knows how to hit ‘em and backs gifted guitarist Gianni Blacula admirably. The lady on the album cover serving the head of a bewhiskered man on a plate also hints at the content… in a good way.
Leadoff track, ‘Divine Is The Illusion’ starts with a solid mid-paced bluesy riff that evokes late 60s blues but with a tribal drum beat, before the middle section fuzzes to life and slows back… a great start. ‘Killers Kiss’ is more of the Blue Cheer style fuzzed blues with an irresistible beat. The aforementioned covers are unrecognisably recognisable as they cleverly take the original melodies and bend them to fit the fuzzed guitars and pounding drums. ’Teddy Girl Boogie’ works a treat and updates the original with vocals from Erika, and has a very short but sweet guitar solo.
Other highlights are the truly frantic ‘Shake ‘Em’ which is punk with hints of rockabilly. ‘Mr Hot Stuff’ is a mix of punk, glam and rock that simply works. The closing track, ‘Horror and Desire’ perhaps sums this refreshing band up best with blues, rock and psyche blended seamlessly into a sub-five-minute epic.
This new offering is a more measured, satisfying and professional set of songs than previous releases. Hopefully, this will mean that the band increase their profile and give fans old and new a chance to join in the fun with this crafted melange of rock styles.
Let The World Burn Down is out on 9th February 2024 via Go Down Records.
