Demonic
Testament · 1997
40 min · 11 tracks · thrash metal
A dark and aggressive exploration of thrash metal that melds haunting melodies with relentless riffs and complex rhythms.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Burning Times — This track stands out with its socially conscious lyrics addressing historical injustices, paired with an aggressive musical style that exemplifies the album's blend of melody and brutality.
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Demonic Refusal Start here — The opening track sets a dark tone for the album, featuring intricate guitar work and a relentless pace that showcases the band's technical prowess while grappling with existential themes.
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Together as One — With its anthemic chorus and compelling message of unity amidst chaos, this song provides a contrasting melodic element that highlights Testament's versatility within their heavy sound.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Demonic showcases Testament's evolution with aggressive riffs and complex rhythms, marking a distinctive return to form.
What we noticed
- The first track features a slow build-up with layered guitar harmonies before launching into rapid-fire riffs, setting a tone of aggression.
- Several tracks incorporate tempo shifts, alternating between fast-paced sections and slower, more melodic interludes.
- Vocals often shift between harsh growls and melodic lines, creating a dynamic interplay that enhances the lyrical themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady relentless energy throughout
- haunting melodies with aggression
- dark themes for introspective moods
- focused listening for intense sessions
Maybe skip if you
- prefer lighthearted, upbeat vibes
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Demonic represents a shift in sound for Testament, exploring darker themes and complex rhythms.
- Career context
- By the time 'Demonic' was released in 1997, Testament was navigating a challenging phase following their previous album, 'The Ritual' (1992). This release marked their return after a five-year hiatus and showcased a shift towards a heavier sound, incorporating elements of death metal. The lineup also saw the introduction of new guitarist Glen Alvelais, which contributed to the album's distinct sonic direction.
Tracklist
- 1 Demonic Refusal Start here 5:22
- 2 The Burning Times 5:15
- 3 Together as One 4:17
- 4 Jun‐Jun 3:43
- 5 John Doe 3:11
- 6 Murky Waters 3:00
- 7 Hatred’s Rise 3:15
- 8 Distorted Lives 3:36
- 9 New Eyes of Old 3:00
- 10 Ten Thousand Thrones 4:37
- 11 Nostrovia 1:30
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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