Review: Degradation Years by Destroyer of Light

I’ve been following Destroyer of Light for many years, and I’ve seen them play live. I’ve also shared the stage with them in my band, Stone Machine Electric. Always a great band to see and hang out with, even though I’m not the most social person. I’m excited about their  new album, but I’m a bit bummed it may be the last album they put out, along with their last tour. Not gonna cry, I promise.

Cruel World opens the album, and from the start, puts off a grunge vibe mixed with the heavy sound DoL is known for. The vocals on Cruel World gel great, and I appreciate how Steve’s vocal performance has progressed along with the way the songwriting changes from one album to the next.

The next song, Waiting for the End, may make you think you’re listening to some 80s new wave or alternative music. Even when the heavier riff rolls in, it doesn’t lose that feel. You can feel the melancholy coming off this track, and it’s great.

And there is great flow right into the third track, Perception of Time. I dig the melody and complimentary guitar lines that occur between verses and love the brief pause before hammering down on the heavier riff. Doom doesn’t have to be just that heavy Sabbath style riffage, and DoL pulls it off well.

I love the tempo and pace of this album, and Failure emphasizes that for me. This track reminds me, but in no way sounds like Megadeth’s Dawn Patrol. It must be that bass tone. This one also has that classic DoL solo section, at least to my ears.

Man with No Name brings the intensity back down. Again, the guys bring in those complimentary guitar lines and weave them throughout this track. This song reminds me of something, but I can’t pinpoint what that is.

The transition to Blind Faith is seamless, and you might not notice the song changed if you’re not paying attention. This one brings the tempo up. I’ll have to listen to this whole thing more to get a grasp on the lyrics better.

Where I Cannot Follow closes out the album, and is also the longest track closing in on 9 minutes. This song is a great combination of the tone this album exudes along with the kind of heavy you come to enjoy hearing come from Destroyer of Light.

If you’re in the DFW area, catch them at Growl/Division Brewing on 4/28/2024. It sounds like it will be your last chance. You can catch All Them Witches next time, so come say hi and let’s watch these gents tear it up!