Devolve cover

Devolve

Shihad · 1990

22 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A raw blend of heavy riffs and unrefined energy, showcasing the band's early alternative metal roots.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    It — Opening with a heavy, driving riff, this track encapsulates the raw energy that defines Devolve, setting the tone for the entire EP.
  • →
    Down Dance — This song showcases Shihad's ability to balance melody with aggression, featuring dynamic shifts that highlight their songwriting prowess.
  • →
    Subject Matters — With its intricate guitar work and thought-provoking lyrics, this track demonstrates the band's early exploration of deeper themes within their heavy sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

47 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

This debut EP showcases Shihad's raw energy and solidifies their early sound within alternative metal.

What we noticed

  • The EP opens with a high-energy track that features aggressive guitar riffs and rapid drumming, setting a raw tone for the record.
  • Each song maintains a consistent tempo, with the final track introducing a slightly slower pace that allows for a more reflective conclusion.
  • Vocals are delivered in a gritty style, often layered with backing harmonies that enhance the intensity of the sound.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • It

    The bridge introduces an abrupt shift in tempo, highlighting a moment of intensity before returning to the driving rhythm.

    This structural choice amplifies the sense of urgency, reflecting the chaotic emotions embedded in the song's theme.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 It 6:11
  • 2 Down Dance 5:46
  • 3 Subject Matters 6:15
  • 4 Wizard 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata