Conquerors of the metalcore realm, The Devil Wears Prada have ventured into outer space for a brief sci-fi concept EP.
The Ohio quartet have finally resigned to Rise Records, and ‘Space’ is the product of the reunion – a dominant display of longevity. Christian infusions are left behind on another planet while the intergalactic theme holds priority, but there’s life in the UFO just yet, as they place the loss of guitarist Chris Rubey to one side and detail a close encounter 2 years after their last studio venture.
The opening intercom panic of ‘Planet A’ soon bursts into Mike Hranica’s signature screams accompanied by familiar raging drumwork from Daniel Williams. “I see the eyes, I see the teeth, see the monster coming through the window,” cries lead single ‘Alien’ as the spacecraft loses control, a forceful and relentless anthem to a struggle for survival. An intricate dialogue between screams and growls demonstrates their versatility without appearing forced or desperate.
Broken communication feeds through ‘Moongod’, while the serenity of backing vocals offset the agony of Mike’s screams. At times raw and strained, however, Mike’s vocals showcase staggering conviction behind every note that leaves his tongue, leaving behind an intense and thoughtfully crafted brief compilation of their talents.
The trudging riff from newbie Kyle Sipres and contrasting soaring melodic interlude of ‘Supernova’ accompany the heartfelt and strained ‘Asteroid’, closing a brief soundtrack to the impending loss of control aboard HMS Prada on an atmosphere of despair – “Say goodbye one last time, it’s closing now,” calls out its last breath.
The Devil Wears Prada have successfully conveyed an other-worldly concept that could have easily fallen into novelty territory, yet the defiance behind each track details their eagerness to prove their worth. A metaphor for the mire of metalcore at present, the rocket loses sight of its target, but with The Devil Wears Prada at the helm, it’ll eventually find its way back to Earth.
4/5
’Space EP’ by The Devil Wears Prada is released on 21st August on Rise Records.
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Words by Ali Cooper (@AliZombie_)
