Given all the names that have come around in the more progressive reaches of death metal, it’s not hard to let a name pass you right on by no matter how big or small that name may be in any context. For me, it took years before I finally came around to Demonstealer despite it being one of my first introductions to this particular corner of the death metal realm when I was first getting into the genre. Having more than familiarized myself with its illustrious discography since then, I don’t plan to make the mistake of not reviewing one of the act’s works again. A premier act from the bountiful scene of India, Demonstealer continuously proves to be a name that demands respect and reverence from every angle. As if we needed any further convincing of that simple truth, the fourth album from the act could easily stand as one of its most infectious to date.

Whether you want to call the particular breed of death metal at play here technical or progressive, there’s no denying that Demonstealer has long been on the cutting edge of what the style has always been capable of when the style is pushed to its utter limits. Each album has been a true display that demands to be absorbed wholly and with great attention to detail for Demonstealer always brings an eclectic blend to the table that is always more than one might expect even after the massive presence the name has made for itself. On its fourth opus, it’s no secret that anticipations were high, and I can’t help but feel as though every possible facet of “The Propaganda Machine” will live up to any expectation and challenge that is set before its massive energies and unwavering will. Positively overwhelming in its technical mastery and meaty hooks that are rifled throughout each and every one of the eight tracks put forth here, Demonstealer has made what has to be considered one of the year’s highlights in what it means to prowess in the realm of death metal in every category without a shred of exception. “The Propaganda Machine” absolutely shines amongst its competition as it’s far more than just some riffs with a fleeting performance of clean vocals to make the album seem “fresh” or “flavorful” in the most pitiful of ways. Rather, we’re truly spoiled by every iota of “The Propaganda Machine” for how bombastic, viciously intoxicating, and downright riveting it is right from the very beginning. It’s the sort of album that a band can make a legendary career off the back of, yet Demonstealer throws it down like it’s another box to check off its lengthy to-do list.

As memorable as it is exhilarating, you could pick any single element of this album and be met with undeniable victory in every form. “The Propaganda Machine” was the only fate of Demonstealer once the very name was created and the first riff was written, and it’s after fifteen years that Demonstealer still stands tall as one of the most compelling acts of death metal not just from India but in the entire world. The definition of what it means to impress and conquer at every turn, “The Propaganda Machine” is a mandatory listen for even the most casual of modern death metal fanatics!

“The Propaganda Machine” releases on March 31st via Black Lion Records!

LISTEN to advanced tracks from “The Propaganda Machine” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Demonstealer on Facebook here.