Self Deception
One Of Us
Napalm Records
For those that like music that just gets on with it Self Deception are for you. This album hits the ground less running more at a sprint and doesn’t quit. It sits not only on that blurry area where rock and metal merge but also incorporates a lot of the more subtle crossover moves popularised by leviathans like Linkin Park. This is a band unafraid to write what works regardless of its origins. ‘One Of Us’ is full of big hooks, stunning melodies and wonderful changes of pace. At its rockiest it reminds you of Shinedown, at its most quirky Avatar. And yet, it is still retains a unique identity. The vocals never push too hard staying largely clean throughout with some nice harmonies. A big plus is also the skill with which the production has been done. The quieter passages have warmth while the heavier sections have instruments that stay distinct without it all ending up clinical. You don’t often get this level of quality on a debut, it sounds expensive. As an introduction to a new act this is about as good as it gets.
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Review by Gary Trueman