TOWNSEND, DEVIN „Terria”

Terria is the counterpart to Devin's Ocean Machine album, which was released with high praise in 1997. Ocean Machine was the water aspect and Terria is the earth aspect. The Canadian madman (aka Devin Townsend) has been involved in numerous bands, most notably Strapping Young Lad. Joining him on this record, also from SYL, is drummer extraordinaire Gene Hoglan (Dark Angel/Death). Terria, like most things Devin gets involved with, is impossible to describe in one single word, or lump into one genre or another. If you haven't heard of Devin Townsend yet, I suggest you pick up this record.

It's metal, it's melodic, it's atmospheric and eerie, yet most importantly, it kicks ass. Each song is heavily layered with synths and samples, which don't dominate the songs, yet stay in the background causing the listener to focus on the music more closely, as part of the whole experience. It truly is a special experience. The vocal harmonies found throughout the album, send chills down the spine and when Devin belches out a scream, all hell breaks loose. Terria is varied enough to keep the listener interested and coming back for more, months after the initial spin. The songs range from slow ballads, to mid paced rocking tunes, as well as heavier arrangements, sometimes all in one song. Favourite tracks are the epic, over 9 minutes long “Earth Day” and the hard rocking “Fluke”. One of my favourite albums of 2001. Devin is a genius and Terria is just another album that proves that.

note: 9.5 / 10