This Devastated Fan - Plot And Debauchery
Having been making music since 2006, it was only recently the four piece settled with a stable line up and decided upon re-releasing their album Plot And Debauchery.
The album opens with the strumming of guitars from Shoulder The War. Although it has its subtler moments on the verses with just a vocal and underlying guitar, once things expand with drumming and more melodies it really grasps your attention. Calvery Cemetery, NYC is next on the play list and follows a similar path with quieter verses to more explosive choruses. Bambi Woods erupts full of drums and impressive guitars from the start, although there are times that leave you wishing for something a little more exciting. You can almost visualize this being a fan favourite when performed live, but lacks the same momentum when it's played from CD. Sounds Like Sirens is the longest track on the album at over five minutes, but is able to maintain a steady melody and remain an interesting listen for its duration. A minute before the end the upbeat side of the track ceases for a minute of more laid-back singing and guitar strumming.
There are a few tunes that take a slower tactic at some points. Contingency Plan takes a more acoustic approach to the opening and as the guitars and drums kick in it remains fairly upbeat throughout. An Assembly Of Witches is a much slower natured track, vocals sing gently alongside guitars at the start before things heat up in terms of atmospherics created by music and vocal; a mysterious feeling is emitted. Hostage and Carnivore are also slow starters, vocals are gentle and music subtle until the half way mark where things take a tougher turn.
Conversation Killer is not one of the most intriguing songs the album has on offer. The melodies are smooth but rather dull and the track appears to drag on for quite some time before kicking off at the last minute. Heathen Rage is the last impression before the album closes, but is far too slow. It makes a concluding let down that should have been more in the centre of the album rather than being the last track heard before the album ends.
This Devastated Fan create a pleasant but not intriguing thirteen track album, although there is nothing in particular to fault, it does have a heard it all before feel.