Kill Devil Hill – S/T (2012)
Rock veterans Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Dio) and Rex Brown (Pantera) have formed a stupendous band named Kill Devil Hill. Named after the town in North Carolina that was famous for pirating way back when, Kill Devil Hill has released their self-titled debut album. With a seasoned veteran like Appice at the helm, there is no doubt that Kill Devil Hill is going to be one amazing hard rock ride.
I really like vocalist Dewey Bragg’s voice on this record. Little is known (or at least, little is revealed) about his background and past musical accomplishments, but however his band mates found him, they should be proud of themselves. Dewey Bragg sings like a seasoned champion. He has a deep, dark voice that fits the melodies of 90s grunge (think Alice In Chains). His vocals are sharp and clear, and his voice adds plenty of depth to the great rhythms played by the rest of the band.
The overall mood on Kill Devil Hill is dark and eerie, yet highly enjoyable. It is doom and gloom meets modern rock minus all the filler. There are only choice cuts of hearty music to be had on this exciting debut record. Imagine a hybrid of Blue Murder and Alice In Chains and that will give you the best idea of what Kill Devil Hill sounds like. This music is fantastic!
With an infectious groove and sultry vocals from Bragg, “Voodoo Doll” is one of the strongest tracks on Kill Devil Hill. The song launches with a superb guitar solo from Mark Zavon (most recently a guitarist for WASP). It then kicks into overdrive as Bragg sings some of his best work on the record. Filled with exceptional time changes, powerful vocals, and incredible melodies, “Voodoo Doll” is a song that everyone is bound to fall in love with.
“We’re All Gonna Die” is another solid song that showcases not only Bragg’s ability, but also the intensity of rhythm section Vinny Appice (on drums) and Rex Brown (on bass guitar). Launching with a roaring drum beat then sliding into dark vocals from Bragg, “We’re All Gonna Die,” is a heavy, grunge-tinged song, very reminiscent of 90-s rock. This could be Appice’s best work on the record, as the drums are extraordinary. Rex Brown keeps pace with some superb bass playing and all tied together “We’re All Gonna Die” is an excellent song.
“Old Man” is a song that plays like a perfect session of love making. Fast and furious leads into slow and caring, then speeds up again before hitting the climax. The tune starts hard and heavy, like most sessions do, building to a rhythmic pace of excellence. When the hook comes, the song slows down, becoming melodic and deep. Then it’s back to the fast paced verse. The pacing of “Old Man” is the biggest part of what makes it such an attractive song. Kill Devil Hill could have a real hit on their hands if they were to release “Old Man” as a single.
With a great rhythm section, an astonishing lead singer, and some wicked guitars, Kill Devil Hill is a solid record that hard rock fans should add to their collection. If your ears hunger to hear some innovative, solid rock music, then grab a copy of Kill Devil Hill and let it play. You’re guaranteed some fantastic music created by some of the best in the business.
Track Listing:
- War Machine
- Hangman
- Voodoo Doll
- Gates Of Hell
- Rise From The Shadows
- We’re All Gonna Die
- Strange
- Time & Time Again
- Old Man
- Mysterious Ways
- Up In Flames
- Revenge
Kill Devil Hill Is:
Rex Brown – Bass
Vinny Appice – Drums
Mark Zavon – Guitar
Dewey Bragg – Vocals
Buy your copy of Kill Devil Hill’s CD at Amazon.com at this link!
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