In the smoldering crucible of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), DEMON emerged not as trend-followers, but as true believers, forging their own path of sonic damnation. "Night of the Demon," their 1981 magnum opus, stands as a testament to their unholy ambition and raw power. However, does this French-pressed Carrere Records 12" vinyl LP transcend the genre's trappings, or is it simply another offering to the metal gods?
The NWOBHM Inferno
The early 1980s was a time of musical upheaval. Punk had given way to a new breed of metal bands, hungry for glory and eager to break free from the commercial constraints of arena rock. DEMON, with their horror-inspired imagery and theatrical stage presence, perfectly embodied this rebellious spirit.
Unveiling the Demon
"Night of the Demon" opens with a shriek that could curdle blood, launching into a relentless assault of razor-sharp riffs and thundering drums. Dave Hill's vocals, both commanding and menacing, weave tales of dark magic and otherworldly encounters. The album's production, while rough around the edges, captures the raw energy of the band's live performances.
A Descent into Darkness
The album's title track is a clear standout, a galloping anthem with a chorus that begs to be chanted at the top of one's lungs. But "Night of the Demon" is more than just fist-pumping anthems. Tracks like "The Grand Illusion" and "Liar" showcase the band's knack for crafting memorable melodies and hooks, while the instrumental "Blackheath" adds a touch of eerie atmosphere. Fans often cite "Don't Break the Circle" as a favorite, showcasing the band's ability to blend aggression with melody.
Musical Exploration or Genre Adherence?
While "Night of the Demon" is firmly rooted in the NWOBHM sound, it also reveals DEMON's willingness to experiment. The use of keyboards and acoustic guitars on certain tracks adds a layer of depth and texture not often found in the genre. However, some might argue that these moments of musical exploration are overshadowed by the album's overall adherence to heavy metal conventions. Some critics highlight the band's lyrical themes of the occult, horror, and fantasy as being particularly strong elements of their appeal.
The Demon's Legacy
Though "Night of the Demon" didn't achieve the same commercial success as some of its NWOBHM contemporaries, it remains a cult classic among metal fans. Its influence can be heard in countless bands who followed in DEMON's footsteps, embracing the theatrical and the macabre. The album is frequently cited as being an important stepping stone to the band's later career, which saw them tackle more serious subjects like political and social issues.
