Tao of the Devil cover

Released 10 years ago

Tao of the Devil

Brant Bjork · 2016

50 min · 8 tracks · heavy metal

A groovy blend of stoner rock and desert vibes, rich with psychedelic undertones and hypnotic rhythms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Gree Heen — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its infectious groove and catchy riffs that encapsulate Bjork's unique fusion of rock styles.
  • →
    Tao of the Devil — The title track embodies the album's themes of introspection and nature, featuring intricate guitar work that reflects Bjork's deep connection to his environment.
  • →
    Evening Jam — Closing the album with an extended jam session, this track highlights Bjork's improvisational skills and showcases the fluidity of his musical vision.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid grooves and improvisational elements but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove with heavy guitar riffs and rhythmic percussion.
  • Each track features extended instrumental sections that allow for improvisation, particularly in the guitar solos.
  • The album closes with 'Evening Jam', which shifts to a slower tempo and incorporates more ambient soundscapes, creating a reflective ending.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

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 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • wave-like pacing with climaxes
  • groove-laden tracks for dancing
  • desert landscape soundscapes
  • for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you

  • short attention span listeners
  • prefer instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2016, 'Tao of the Devil' is Brant Bjork's fifth solo album, following his 2014 release 'Black Power Flower.' At this point in his career, Bjork was not only solidifying his reputation as a solo artist but also further exploring his signature sound that blends heavy rock with laid-back desert grooves.
Stylistic neighbors
Kyuss· Fu Manchu· Queens of the Stone Age

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Gree Heen 5:39
  • 2 Humble Pie 4:37
  • 3 Stackt 3:27
  • 4 Luvin’ 3:50
  • 5 Biker No. 2 4:23
  • 6 Dave’s War 9:19
  • 7 Tao of the Devil 5:28
  • 8 Evening Jam 13:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata