Gauntlet News

DEVILDRIVER Unleashes Fury with 'Strike And Kill': A New Era Beckons

By Jason
Dez Fafara reveals the relentless grind behind DEVILDRIVER's upcoming album, set to pummel fans on July 10.

In a recent no-holds-barred interview with Australia's May The Rock Be With You, DEVILDRIVER's frontman and chief architect Dez Fafara laid bare the details of the band's highly anticipated eleventh studio album, 'Strike And Kill'. Slated for a savage drop on July 10 via Napalm Records, this record promises to be a relentless onslaught of sound, crafted meticulously over the past two and a half years. Joined by a formidable lineup featuring guitarists Alex Lee and Gabe Mangold, drummer Davier Ortega Perez, and returning bassist Jon Miller, Fafara declares, "What you're gonna get is a lot of what you heard, with a fresh aggression that echoes the raw energy of our early days."

Fafara's enthusiasm for 'Strike And Kill' is palpable as he describes the album as a collection of tracks that will leave listeners gasping for breath. He highlights the challenge of selecting singles due to the sheer volume of material, hinting at a sound that will resonate with long-time fans while forging new paths. The title track, he insists, will deliver an unparalleled experience that redefines the boundaries of heavy music. "It's just nonstop bludgeoning," he proclaims, before teasing a moment of reprieve that he believes will resonate deeply with listeners.

As the conversation deepens, Fafara emphasizes the collaborative spirit that fuels DEVILDRIVER's creative process. "I've got great players with me, man. The guys are absolute monsters on their instruments, and I'm just humbled to be able to sing to this stuff," he admits. He has a clear vision and, while he leads the charge, he values the input of his bandmates, creating an environment where every voice matters. This democratic approach ensures that the final product is not just a reflection of Fafara's vision but a collective tapestry of talent.

Moreover, fans can expect new music sooner than later. "We're digesting this right now, man," says Dez, hinting that the writing process for the next album has already begun. He dismisses any notion of recycling old material, affirming that DEVILDRIVER is forging ahead with fresh ideas, ensuring each new offering is as explosive as the last. As he puts it, "If you're a fan of DEVILDRIVER, you're gonna get exactly what you want out of this record."

Fafara also reflects on his lyrical evolution, emphasizing that while the mechanics of writing may have changed, the raw intensity remains unwavering. He describes the process of receiving multiple song ideas, honing in on what speaks to him, and crafting lyrics that resonate with the ferocity of the music. This meticulous attention to detail is something he holds sacred, ensuring that every track is a powerful statement.

In the lead-up to the album's release, Fafara remains focused on the positive feedback from early listeners. "I feel blessed to have this group of guys around me at this time in my life after everything I've been through," he admits, revealing his gratitude for the chemistry they share. As anticipation builds, DEVILDRIVER stands ready to reclaim their throne in the metal realm with 'Strike And Kill', and the world is bracing for the chaos to come.