Demonist - Demonist

Demonist are relatively new to the Metal world; not much is known about them except they are from France and some of the members were part of Necroscum until 2023 and then moved on to this band. Presented here is their first EP- it is very short but showcases what the band is about. A blend of furious Death Metal with a bit of that ‘old school’ touch to it, it sounds like a mix of Demiser meets Nile at times (especially on a track like ‘Slay Them All’) with a touch of older Deicide. But, one thing is sure is that the band does their best to draw a lot of different influences to make for a good listen. There is a lot that goes on here in 17 minuts. The percussive drumming from Bastion Pocheron rings clear in that Cryptopsy hollow kind of way alongside the snarls and growls from Paul Clausse who also does the guitars and the bass is audible right alongside by Alexis Chateau to bring the fuzzy Grave/ Dismember tones, but not too fuzzy.

Demonist also throw in a bit of Thrash groove for good measure when considering a track like ‘Pandemonium.’ It is a little bit slower than the others and doesn’t hit with as much force, but sounds like one of the more popular Vader songs out there from the 90s. Vocals bellow on point and the guitars are more the focal point here with the bass pushed a little into the background, but there is definitely more melody here versus downright chugging. The first ‘single’ ‘They Inhale the Soul’ is also present and again, comes in a bit of a slow to mid paced lurch, but fits right alongside the likes of bands like Necrot or even Crawl, but less filthy sounding. Vocals here are the high point as they bellow, snarl, and do their best not to sound too one sided. Ultimately, between the sound of it all “Demonist” is a good start for the band and will leave listeners wanting more, be it the rhythms, the twang of the bass, or the throaty vocals to deliver some good straightforward Death Metal.

3 / 5 STARS