There must be something in the French water these days… after DEPRAVED, KRONOS, IMPERIAL SODOMY this is already the fourth band in a really short period of time that delivers a full length of brutal grinding Death Metal in a very intense form. But unlike most of their countrymen DEVILIUM really seem to know what they’re doing. This is technically very well executed, fairly good produced Death / Grind with many tempo changes and the necessary dose of midtempo parts in order to keep your attention throughout the whole record. Just like many other acts today, also DEVILIUM are once again heavily influenced by the brutal American Death Metal scene, but never to the extend that they sound any weaker or pathetic because of that. This is definitely a band that is already playing in the same league as all those they still feel influenced by. A cool looking coverart complete the already very positive impression. So, with “Pagan At War” DEVILIUM delivered a very solid foundation, but that needs to be supported by a whole lot of live shows and an equally strong (or stronger) follow up now, in order to establish the (not very clever chosen) name in the underground. No matter what, this is worth checking out. All further info: promo@criminal-recs.com