I’m going to be honest here. As soon as I read the phrases “industrial metal with soundtrack elements” and “toured with Nachtblut”, I had a feeling I was going to enjoy Hollow Earth by Devil-M before I heard a single note – and my suspicions were correct because this is an absolutely excellent piece of work.
Hollow Earth is an empowering album that shows a band at the top of their game and what’s especially good is that although it’s clear that Devil-M have been influenced by artists such as Marilyn Manson and Psyclon Nine, they have created their own unique sound and the album is stronger as a result of this. Devil-M aren’t afraid of experimenting to see what works and what doesn’t, and it’s paid off for them.
One of the highlights of the album actually occurs fairly late on in the piece, with penultimate track Human Being helping to close Hollow Earth with a bang. Featuring hard-hitting beats, striking synthesised lines and an empowered vocal performance, the song has it all and if you’re looking for an anthemic track that will surely go down a storm live, look no further than this one!
In a genre that can be somewhat hit or miss, Devil-M has triumphed and have created a tremendous piece with Hollow Earth. This is an all-round awesome release – and I’m already eagerly anticipating the follow up!
9.5/10
