Complexity Returns To UK Metal
Devon based Died Smiling recently celebrated their first year together as a band, and "Evolution Of The Fist" are the fruits of the year's labour. Drawing a strong influence from Tool and blending it with the unique power that Sepultura could offer, Died Smiling hit you with an incredibly original and fresh sound. Died Smiling have favoured complexity over noise, and as a result you have one of the most openly creative bands the last few years have seen.
Recently, we've been hit with a tidal wave of noise minus technique. Well, right from "Stronger", this album is a journey of dynamic creation and innovation. Tracks like "In Effect" and "Spirals" exemplify the fact that Died Smiling took a big risk; risk losing out on the growing metal market by alienating a possible fanbase but it seems that the four guys of Died Smiling really are in it for the music, a promise thrown around by far too many bands. There's no "playing it safe" on Evolution Of The Fist, and that's a fantastic element to this album.
British Metal is currently suffering a barrage of grindcore and metalcore bands throwing albums left right and center without any creative merit. Thank goodness that Died Smiling aren't wasting their time following suit. They're the helping hand to pull metal out of this dire situation. Why not lend a hand and pick up "Evolution Of The Fist" as soon as you can.