Devoured - Demo '24  Review

Devoured - Demo '24 Review

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Sometimes, less is more, and the band Gang in Devoured truly understands this principle with their demo. This release takes a refreshingly simple approach, but with excellent production and a strong sense of identity, they make simplicity sound great. From the crunchy, buzzing riffs to the thick, weighted bass, tight drums, and dense, brutal vocals, every element of this demo is executed perfectly. There is very little to criticize because the band has nailed the basics in a way that feels both powerful and satisfying.

The guitar work here is straightforward but effective. The riffs may not be overly complex, but they hit with a satisfying, buzzing tone that keeps the energy high without ever feeling forced. The simplicity of the riffing style gives the music room to breathe, and there’s nothing awkward or out of place—everything is clean and to the point. This minimalist approach is especially effective during the breakdowns, where the band shows that sometimes less really is more. The absence of over-the-top technicality here allows the breakdowns to feel even heavier, relying purely on raw power and intensity.

The drumming is another standout feature. Much like the guitars, the drumming is simple yet incredibly tight. The snare drum pops sharply, cutting through the mix, while dynamic drum fills and cymbal work add just the right amount of flair to keep the tracks interesting. A great example of this is during the breakdown of "Final Hour," where the drummer’s subtle yet impactful fills add texture and depth without overshadowing the core of the song. It’s an excellent example of how effective simplicity can be in making a song feel both powerful and dynamic.

The bass is dirty and gritty, adding a layer of heaviness that perfectly complements the rest of the band's sound. On tracks like “Smother,” the bass gives the songs a dense, weighty feel that enhances the overall atmosphere. It's not flashy, but it adds a crucial depth that makes the music feel alive and heavy. The production throughout is crisp and clear, allowing every element of the band to shine through without sounding cluttered or muddy. It’s a testament to how well the band knows what they’re doing—they’ve kept things simple, but the result is a demo that sounds polished and powerful.

The vocals are just as dense and brutal as the music. The singer brings a husky, commanding presence to each track, and the use of gang vocals and backing screams adds texture and balance to the vocal performance. The contrast between the lower, guttural vocals and some higher-pitched moments helps give the songs a sense of variety, even while maintaining that hard, aggressive edge. The gang vocals especially add a sense of unity and power to the tracks, making them feel even more intense.

Ultimately, the production is what ties everything together, and it’s what makes this demo so impressive. Everything sounds clear, crisp, and cohesive—there’s no muddiness or chaos, just a well-executed, powerful sound. The band clearly knew what they wanted to achieve with this demo, and by keeping things simple, they’ve created something that is both effective and impactful. In a world where bands often feel the need to overcomplicate their sound, Gang in Devoured shows that sometimes, less really is more. This demo is a great example of how to do heavy, straightforward music right. There are no major flaws—just a solid, well-made demo from a band that knows exactly what they’re doing.

RATING: 10/10

NOTABLE TRACKS: 

 

Leech

Final Hour

Smother

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