Devillac
s/t
self-released
These Finns sure know how to sabotage themselves. Between the misleading name, forgettable cover art and tepid instrumental opening number, it's a miracle I even bothered to check out the rest of the album. I'm glad I did though because these dudes actually have a decent heavy fuzzrock sound once they get going. They're not idiosyncratic enough to stand out from the mediocre multitudes, but I do dig the fact that they're going for a more modern, streamlined approach as opposed to doing the tired retro/stoner thing. I've heard enough wannabees in that vein to last me a lifetime. Anyhow, I'd say that Devillac is eminently listenable and far, far better than I expected, but still totally forgettable in the end.
- Avi Roig