Written by Robin Ervolina
How about an instal-hell-yes? The first seconds of the intro track for Be Like The River paint a billboard as big as Texas, and the product it’s advertising is Devilskin.
Devilskin hails from New Zealand and is comprised of father/son Paul Martin (bass and backing vocals) and Nic Martin (drums), Nic's Aunt (and Paul's sister-in-law) Jennie Skulander (lead vocals), and Paul's "evil twin" Nail (guitar). Don't worry that you haven't heard of them. You will soon. When Halestorm is providing tour support for you, then Disturbed taps you to support them, you are just THIS close to being a household name in the U.S. too. Oh, did I mention they are a household name in New Zealand? Their debut album We Rise (2014) debuted at #1 on the Official New Zealand Music Chart, chilled there for four weeks, and eventually went Platinum.
Devilskin has a remarkably cohesive sound, with a lead vocalist who is not outdone by her band-mates, but enhanced and enhances. You get guitar solos, chugging rhythms, and layered vocals that are both clean and unclean (all Jennie's). Skulander sings soulfully while an underbelly of rock and symphonic instrumentation joins in tandem. Skulander's vocals are deep and rich, a contralto tapping into lyric and melody effortlessly. "Animal" is driving and earthy. "Closer" is the ultimate rock ballad, an act done often by many, but rarely executed so well. "House 13" is a personal favorite, a powerful and driving melody with intense lyrical delivery. Skulander scales the higher notes with sheer power and abandonment.
Devilskin is familiar but unique; it is comforting, yet calls you from your comfort zone. The safe place Devilskin has constructed will feel at home to any rock fan, and undoubtedly bring a few more into the fold. This is a don't miss for 2016. Pick up your copy now at Devilskin's Be Like The River or download instantly at iTunes.
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