Devilment
II – The Mephisto Waltzes
(Nuclear Blast)
The Mephisto Waltzes is the second album from Dani Filth’s other band. Apart from sharing the lead singer this is far removed from Cradle Of Filth. Lyrics are clearer, if still guttural, interspersed with Dani’s trademark shriek. Gone are the theatrics that Cradle uses, this is a much more stripped back, bare bones affair. In many ways it’s superior, being more of a proper heavy metal sound, pounding drums, heavy bass riffs and driving guitar. Even the keyboards sound heavier, less orchestral. Lauren Francis perfectly counterpoints Dani’s voice with her own, shining in the upper ranges. This is a must for any fan of heavy metal, a brutal onslaught of the senses. It’s hard to pick out any track as weaker than the others, all of them standing out in their own way. Highlight is the opening track, Judastein.
Review By Mark Bestford