DIVIL RELEASE A TESTAMENT TO LIFE

EP REVIEW | DIVIL – DIVIL I by Rachel Puk

Today, Dublin’s up and coming band DIVIL release their debut EP DIVIL I.

The band were childhood friends in Northside Dublin, who reconnected at the funeral of singer Danny Dempsey McMahon’s father. A month after the funeral, well-known bassist Conor Cusack was diagnosed with cancer. The band is built on a foundation of community and strength. Adamant that the show must go on, the band worked hard to perfect their EP whilst bandmate Conor recovers from surgery. The determined trio, rounded out by guitarist Jocelyn Vance, formed the group as an outlet for grief and mental health struggles. This EP reflects the band’s sheer passion and emotion through stern and well-crafted music.

The EP is three tracks long and each is as strong as the other.

“Thanks A Million” begins with an incredibly powerful introduction, McMahon’s voice is full and bounces smoothly over each cohesive instrumental. An easygoing indie twang is uplifted by the character of McMahon’s vocals, making this band stand out from the saturated indie-rock market that even die-hard indie lovers are struggling to get through. Easily the catchiest tune of the three, this one in particular would be a very fulfilling introduction to somebody who hasn’t had the pleasure of listening to DIVIL before.

Second track, “ORANGUTAN“, is notably heavier as the Cusack’s bass and Jocelyn Vance’s guitar dance alongside each other. Leaving behind the taste of indie in the previous track, “ORANGUTAN” steps into a post-punk essence, further showcasing the band’s dynamic ability to thrive in juxtaposing styles.

“Chewing Gum” is the newest addition to DIVIL’s discography. The track begins with a screech of feedback, throwing us into the finale. Tension builds throughout the entire track with the power of both the instruments and Cusack’s spoken-word style lyricism. Though this track is the heaviest on the EP, the lyrics pull at you the most:

When I asked how much time I have left to live my life,
She said “Son, only God has the answer to that”
From that point in my life I was sure that I would die
And that I haven’t got hardly any time left.

Knowing the poignant circumstances that the band survive and create in, the three songs sit on an incredibly made EP that will ensure the band success in their come-up. Their listeners should be keen to catch these three tracks performed live.

DIVIL I is available on all streaming services now.