Similar to a lot of bands that released music during the heat of the pandemic, it feels like no time at all has passed since Avatar released Hunter Gatherer. But here we are, some two and a half years later and we are already being treated to another full-length album, Dance Devil Dance.
I think longtime fans of the band’s hardcore roots are going to absolutely love this album, but there are certainly a handful of eclectic tracks that made the cut, too. I personally appreciate the variety and I tended to enjoy the tracks more that deviated from the norm. Recently I read that this has been the most exciting album that the band has created since they started. Lead singer, Johannes Eckstrom even went on to say that it feels almost like they’re starting new, that’s how exciting the material was for them this time around. When I get some spare time I’m definitely going to check out the few “making of” videos they have posted on their Youtube channel. I’m curious what the process was like this time around.
With all of that being said, again, I really did enjoy the record. Their lead single and title track, “Dance Devil Dance,” felt to me like a more classic Avatar entry, but it was certainly good! I was a huge fan of their other single, “The Dirt I’m Buried In.” That song shows up a bit later on the album and sounds almost nothing like what the rest of the tracks have to offer. It presents more as a straight-forward rock song with no screaming in sight. I think that’s a track I could get my dad to like! Another song that really stood out to me was “On the Beach.” This one did a great job of mixing the really heavy stuff with an insanely melodic and catchy chorus.
Most of the rest of the album was pretty hardcore and with just one listen through I couldn’t really differentiate one track from another, but generally speaking, I liked the way they sounded. I’d also like to get my hands on some official lyrics for these songs, and more specifically for “Gotta Wanna Riot.” From what I did catch at the beginning and right at the end, it kind of sounded hilarious. For example, the intro goes as follows: “Bobby had a friend named Robby. Robby was missing a hand.” I do believe cannibalism was involved, but again, gotta get ahold of those lyrics! Overall though, the rest of the album was a good time.
This new record has got me even more excited to see them at Sonic Temple this year (FINALLY, IT’S BACK!)! I know the band is embarking on their own tour, but it’s not coming around my way this time. Hopefully some fall dates get announced someday soon!