The DevilsHorns

5 years after their self-released debut album, Texan Melodic Death Metal crew, Hinayana have finally released their follow-up, Shatter and Fall via the mighty Napalm Records!  No pressure then guys… self-release v major label!

Melodeath is a highly competitive genre, with some genuine heavy hitters in the metal community, many of whom loiter in the Scandinavian region. It is perhaps surprising to see a Texas based band delivering a strong, robust slab of superior Melodic Death, with sumptuous dirty vocals and inspired riffage. In terms of the vocals, it is a welcome change to listen to a Death Metal album where you can make out the words and grasp the concept of the tracks.

The 11 tracks on offer provide more melody than extreme death metal riffs, album opener, ‘Slowly Light Collides’, features a chunky slow riff, underpinned by a melodic guitar chuntering away in the background. It is followed by the easy listening, ‘Mind is a Shadow’. This is perhaps the single flaw the album has. The songs don’t challenge the listener, they are easily accessible and so there are few moments where you flash the horns, grab your air-guitar or frantically air-drum. Instead you wallow in the thoughtful solos splattered throughout Shatter and Fall, as well as subtle piano keys, ‘Spirit and Matter’ is an apt example.