Don’t let that menacing band moniker frighten you (it translates as “Devil’s Earth”), this Scottish powerhouse are not death metal heads. Akin to the current crop of UK festival favorites Kasabian, The Coral, and Snow Patrol, Diablo ply their pop yearnings with an alternative bent. Heavy on melodramatics, especially as evidenced in the mighty, manly, macho vocal calisthenics of Ian Fairclough, Diablo reaches for the heavens, and more often than not, hit their mark in such anthemic offerings as the grandiose “Satellites,” the funky “Distraction” (think INXS on steroids), and the acid-rock drenched “Dehumanize.” Heck, the lads even assume the role of jangle pop stars in the soft, bouncy “That Always Works,” replete with Beach Boy harmonies, fluttering flute motifs, and sturdy backbeat that would do the Cars proud. There’s enough here to appeal most modern rock fans, and judging by their hectic touring schedule, the word should get out soon enough.
Tom Semioli
Release date: October 24, 2006
