Demon Hunter - Peace (2019) [Official Digital Download]

Demon Hunter has quite a history under their belt with almost 20 years and 10 albums (including this one and War). They appeal to listeners who don't want constant rough vocals integrated in metal, even though Demon Hunter does have its moments where screaming / growly vocals are prevalent in some songs and even more so in releases prior to Extremist. This time, Demon Hunter surprised many fans by introducing the concept of releasing 2 albums (War and Peace) on the same day and date, with 20 total new songs (22 if you purchase the Special Edition versions). In this review, Peace will be the main emphasis.

Opening the album, "More than Bones" kicks things off nicely as it is a fairly well paced tune that radiates with just the right amount of punch you would expect from a rock anthem. It focuses on God's promise (salvation) and how one will continue their life after death: "more than bones / you'll never be alone / when I leave you/ I leave you more than bones." From here, the album ventures into less memorable songs, "I Don't Believe You" and "Loneliness." The songs are decent, however, there isn't really much variation like we've seen in past DH songs. When I'm listening to "Loneliness," I keep anticipating that some change up in the vocals (wailing, screaming) will take place, or even a breakdown. However, it is nice during part of the song where the music subsides briefly and Ryan's vocals are the focal point. The title track, "Peace," released earlier as a preview single, is a good example of a typical but great Demon Hunter composition. It flows nicely, has a very catchy chorus as well as a nice bridge, and is easily one of the highlights on the album.

Demon Hunter deserves credit on trying new things on this release, such as "When the Devil Come," which resonates a western-like theme and somehow they make it work using their own design. I have to admit that I can't seem to get this song's chorus out of my head after listening to this release. "Two Ways" is more of medium level hard rock tune than can sometimes lean more towards metal. "Rescue Myself" is a little reminiscent of NYVES (Ryan's other project), and that makes it a distinctive track filled with synthesizers. The album closes with perhaps one of Demon Hunter's best ballads, "Fear is Not My Guide" that encapsulates a sound familiar with Queenryche's 1991 hit, "Silent Lucidity."

Tracklist:

01. More Than Bones
02. I Don't Believe You
03. Loneliness
04. Peace
05. When the Devil Come
06. Time Only Takes
07. Two Ways
08. Recuse Myself
09. Bet My Life
10. Fear is Not My Guide



All thanks go to the original releaser