STEELPREACHER is a Metal band based out of Germany. Formed in 2001, the band had previously released four full length albums. "Devilution" is the band's fifth, and contains ten new tracks. Like a lot of modern German metal, this has some obvious Power and NWOBHM influence.

The title track, "Devilution," is a fast paced rocker with prolific doses of high, harmonic vocals. The instrumentation is packed tightly together and you can hear a seasoned band that has spent time together. "We Don't Get Drunk (We Just Get Awesome)" speaks more to the fun side of the band that is on full display here. There are even some elements of Party Rock/Glam Rock from the 1980's. "Too Old For Dying Young" continues this old school kind of vibe, and it takes me back to a time when listening to Metal was just enjoyable and energizing and you didn't have to overthink the product. I am betting this would be a really good live band. The slide guitar in "El Pollo Diablo" combines nicely with the thunderous riffing and rocket fuel laced ambiance, complete with a unified echo of the chorus in call-back-and forth-method.

"Rock And Roll On My Mind" is like the album's anthem and sacrifice to the Gods of Metal. It swings with an AC/DC feeling and a balls-out chorus, affirming the band's mission and promise to fly that Metal flag high and with pride. "Let's Get Loaded" has a free flowing, no-rules, endless party in the back room type of sound. The guitar solo adds some glitter to the party even know it doesn't need it. This might be the best song on the album. "Seasons Of The Witch" has equal parts seriousness and flirty titillation that take the album on a slightly different path while still retaining the entertaining spirit of the album. Closing the album is the song "Atlantean Dawn," done in an alternate acoustic version. I like the choice of the acoustic number to slow down all of the boisterousness of the rest of the album. This would be akin to the "power ballad" of old, exuding the emotion that would go along with being charged with protecting one's homeland.

Overall, this has been a very lively listening experience. STEELPREACHER might be Germany's answer to American's STEEL PANTHER, without the over the top tongue-in-cheek misogyny. If you are longing for an album that is just downright fun to listen to in the spirit of care-free days gone by, pick this up!