Like a bull charging out of the now obliterated gate, Despised Icon are back with their seventh full-length album, Shadow Work. The opening and title track sets the titanic tone for what’s to come — vicious, angry, and utterly rancorous. Shadow Work is explosive from the very first fiery note, in typical Despised Icon fashion. Hold on tight — shit’s about to get real!
Expect gratuitous grooves, seemingly limitless speed, and breakdowns that’ll make you bang your head until your noggin rolls down the hallway, plus more face-melting melodies than you could poke a stick at. Shadow Work is so heavy it’s got its own gravitational pull. This album is not for the faint-hearted.
Extreme from every angle, Despised Icon once again delivers that hardcore-death metal grit wrapped in a vastly layered soundscape. Blast beats, flawless ferocity, and guttural grooves from drummer Alex Pelletier make for some of the best drumming I’ve heard in a dog’s age. The precision, inventiveness, and sheer power behind the kit should make every metalhead excited to blow out their eardrums when this beast drops.
The twin vocal assault of Steve Marois and ex-drummer Alex Erian takes listeners on a journey of girthy growls and sinister screams, pushing the proverbial envelope and leaving nothing in the tank. Their anthemic performances are a resounding roar of struggle, sacrifice, and strength — a testament to what makes Despised Icon one of the best in the business.
Lead guitarist Eric Jarrin shreds like his fingers are possessed by the devil himself, while rhythm guitarist Ben Landreville and bassist Sebastien Piché bring the thunder with riffs and low-end brutality that never quit. Together, they forge the distinct Despised Icon sound — uniquely uninhibited, unabashedly euphoric, and unbelievably heavy.
Lose yourself in the moment on your first listen. Pull the blinds down, kill the lights, and immerse yourself in Shadow Work. Feel every blast beat as your pulse rises until you can’t help but bang your fucking head over and over again.
Visual artist Eliran Kantor once again delivers a cover that perfectly matches the chaos within — a lurid, haunting piece that wraps a brilliantly forged album in nightmare-inducing art.
Release the doves — Despised Icon are back, and they’ve absolutely killed it on Shadow Work. One of the albums of the year in this reviewer’s opinion. Prepare yourself for utter brilliance, served on a silver splatter.
Order Shadow Work:
https://despisedicon.bfan.link/shadow-work
DESPISED ICON’s line-up is:
Alex Erian | Vocals
Steve Marois | Vocals
Eric Jarrin | Guitars
Ben Landreville | Guitars
Sébastien Piché | Bass
Alex “Grind” Pelletier | Drums
