Alice In Chains - The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here (Album Review)
Monday, 24 June 2013
Written by Josh Adams
Alice In Chains are no doubt an enduring force in rock 'n' roll. Emerging during the grunge explosion of the early 1990s, their colossal second album 'Dirt' secured place in rock history. While 'The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here' can't replicate that level of craftsmanship, it's got plenty to recommend it.
Their ‘second sophomore release’ following their reformation after the death of front man Layne Staley, 'The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here' is infinitely more forthright than 2009’s 'Black Gives Way to Blue'. This is understandable given the complex identity issues that undoubtedly arose from the band's relaunch.
For long-time Alice In Chains fans this album provides a good dose of mainstream, well-executed alternative metal. Voices is perhaps the album's finest showing, a completely infectious bout of anguish accompanied by traditionally dark lyrics and stunted verses.
Stone is demonstrative of the group’s foray into ultra-lo-fi sludge metal, where they appear to drop their grunge history altogether. The vocals have been pared back almost completely, leaving room to appreciate the nuanced wall of guitars coming your way.
William DuVall (making his second appearance on vocals) is given room to fly on Low Ceiling, a number that revolves around the relatively new frontman’s abilities.
'The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here' as a whole is a hearty lesson that the band can maintain its wide appeal to fans of rock and metal, while also keeping alive their enviable legacy.
It's got all the hallmarks of an Alice In Chains record, but the band have successfully given a new twist to a classic formula. It isn't going to be hailed as a work of genius, as some of their earlier work was, but it can be considered a solid second effort by the new line-up.
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