There are certain expectations that come from an album titled Death to God, and deVries defies them all. The illusion provoked by such a title might be ominous, distrustful, and vicious. Instead, Death to God is touching, imaginative, and esoteric.

Though there is a dark cloud above each track, the moments of light that break through the shady spots are the highlights of the listening experience. “Darkest Summer” jump-starts the album, with a peppy, yet dismal melody that tugs you in two directions, feeling like a sad walk in the rain while inducing a sense of better things to come at the end of the road. The echoing drums and crisp guitar riffs behind vocals full of conviction and sentiment make the track gentle, yet bold. “Out to Wastelands” is an elegant song, which features hypnotic vocals over top guitar licks and percussion that let your imagination soar along with the melody.

In the spirit of Pink Floyd, “Broken Heart” is a gorgeous ethereal track backed by violins and a melancholy chorus. The album closes out with the haunting track, “Wherever You Are” that seems to be encouraging the listener to linger within the dreaminess. deVries created an album that would satisfy the contemplative during lonely instances, as well as the intimate that need a catalyst to break down the walls between them.

As a whole, the album carries a very Brit-pop shoegaze sound that delivers thoughtful, introspective perspectives of light and dark, hope and sadness, or relief and angst. Death to God is not a casual listen, but rather a provocative experience through the shadows and sunshine of a poetic songwriter.

Review by Nadia Lelutia