Rough Edge: The Devin Townsend Band CD Reviews

THE DEVIN TOWNSEND BAND

"Accelerated Evolution" (Hevy Devy; 2003)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

Strapping Young Lad's Devin Townsend is an accomplished metal pioneer, having worked with the likes of Steve Vai and having recorded an entire catalog of his own solo material. Add to that the vast production credits he carries (Lamb of God, Soilwork) and you can see the impact the man has had on the genre.

So, when it comes time for this Canadian metal cult figure to step in front of a band, the results are breathtaking. Enter the nine-track opus known as "Accelerated Evolution," an ethereally organic metal release that boasts Townsend's cunning metal knowledge and vast metal talents, both in production and performance.

Stirring metal with a progressive edge, there are a multitude of influences heard here - from Swedish death metal to alternative metal - yet the beauty of it all is that Townsend and crew build the basics around these and create a totally unique amalgamation. Distinctly different yet definitively metal, those that crave a higher degree of metal will be pleased as punch at the latest chapter in Townsend's fantastic sojourn.

For more information, check out http://www.hevydevy.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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