"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” Romans 8:18.
Since 2006, The Devil Wears Prada has been at the top of the metal world, punching out album after album with a natural beautiful progression of sound. 8:18 is the bands fifth studio album and once again, they’ve stepped up their game and made a mark with their punishing sound.
The opening track “Gloom” is one that TDWP has been using at their recent live shows, so it will be familiar for some fans. “Gloom” kicks off the album the right way, but definitely doesn’t define the overall feeling for this record. The band has expanded their sound from Dead Throne while mixing in those massive and brutal moments from Zombie EP. The sound of this album is very natural and true to TDWP’s style. Mike Hranica’s vocals have stepped up lyrically and dynamically. Mike uses his voice to make certain moments feel huge, others very emotion and above all he is staying true to his abilities. Some moments sound like he is playing a live show, which adds to the natural sound of this record.
Musically the album is mixed up well enough between odd time changes, deeper instrumental dynamics and better written choruses to please all fans while make some of these songs the best TDWP has ever created. Songs that stood out the most were “Home for Grave” “Gloom” “In Heart” and “8:18”.
In contrast to Dead Throne’s theme of losing love, 8:18 has a cohesive theme of finding love throughout each song. Each song brings something new to the table and The Devil Wears Prada has done a great job of making these songs organic, meaningful and well balanced dynamically. 8:18 is a great album and Prada fans might find some of their favorite songs on this record. Pick up 8:18 on September 17, and catch them on tour this fall in the UK and USA.
9.5/10
-Ryan