Devil Wears Prada – 8:18 Review

Stereotyped Metalcore outfit from Dayton, Ohio, The Devil Wears Prada, often ridiculed by the so-called ‘Elitist’ metalheads for being too Christian and Core(And maybe their name), come out with their 5th studio album, 8:18 and clearly burn all this criticism into flames by coming out with a sonic boom of a record. This is the first album not to feature founding member James Baney(Keyboards), but somehow proves to be their most carefully produced and tightest effort till date. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us”,  which is the biblical verse that inspired the title in the sense that sufferings are just a phase and beyond them is the real glory. Similar hope can be seen throughout the lyrics.

Coming to the musical verdict, the sound may not be as impressive, but the song structures give for a great impression. The song duration is of ‘hardcore’ length with almost every track clocking around 3 minutes. This makes you breeze throughout the album without ever feeling the slightest bit of monotony.

The opener track ‘Gloom’, showcases how greatly the new keyboardist, Johnathan Gering shows off his skills (though not a permanent member). The amount of breakdowns is just perfect with adequate build ups. This album is easily a mosh-fest. The lead vocals seem more interesting than the clean ones and give a heavier sound. The rhythm section is flawless. ‘Rumours’ has an interesting intro with the hooks and pre-choruses comprising of atmospheric synth parts which give them a fresh sound different from other similar acts. Most tracks are on the same lines but Industrial sounding ‘Care More’ give a much different feel, with keyboard being on the fore-front in this ambient track. Overall the album would do you great if you’re even slightly into core.

(Don’t miss – Gloom, Rumours, War, Martyrs, Care More, Number Eleven,)

8eight8 Music Score : 7/10

– Sarthak Khanna, Contributing Writer 8eight8Music