Two years ago, we reviewed the album "Domain" from Dutch melodic/brutal death metal hybrid DEVIOUS. In short, it kicked serious ass. Combining deadly riffs with symphonic synth, a superb production and songwriting that often borderlines progressive, it was an album with more than enough to appeal to any fan of extreme metal. Two years later and with a new vocalist in the fold (not to mention a new logo), DEVIOUS returns with their third full-length, "Vision." Much to our delight, the string of high-quality output continues.

The main difference this time around, apart from the half-step uptuning, is the rumbling visceral growl of new frontman Arnold, who proves himself as fine a replacement as the band could have hoped for. Beyond that, this should be familiar ground for those already familiar with the previous album. The crisp, clear production is still present, as is the inspired songwriting. Album opener "Heritage of the Reckless" wastes no time in establishing what these guys are about, as majestic synth orchestration gradually gives way to more low speed picking, double bass and blast beats than should be allowed by the FDA. And those who have forgotten what it was like when IN FLAMES was listenable need look no further than "Respiration of Fear." Folks who want a tad less melody to their metal, though, will surely find either the superhuman speed of "Abide" or the head-bobbing groove of "Impulse Overload" to their liking. Finally, one listen to the atmospheric shredder "Disconnect" will have kids worldwide throwing their copies of "In Sorte Diaboli" in the trash.

The only real dilemma is this: It still doesn't seem like folks have caught on to how awesome DEVIOUS is. Meanwhile, we're still up to our eyeballs in piss-ant hoodie-wearing metalcore bands that wouldn't know what "extreme" was if it bit them in the scrotum. It just doesn't seem like there's any justice in the world. If these guys were able to tour the U.S., they could have the entire scene eating from the palm of their hands. If and when that happens, count on us to say that we told you so.

- Cardona

OFFICIAL SITE: www.devious.nl

RELATED ITEMS: DEVIOUS - "Domain", 2007