Veteran rock band Demon Hunter's musical journey began in 2002 with a self-titled album that was released in partnership with Solid State Records. The band quickly became an icon for the label and a favorite among fans. Their musical identity is forged from diverse elements encapsulated into a singular experience. Without a doubt, they are one of America's thrash metal legends.
The group's extended family–fans, other bands, and artists–around the world cherish the group's songs as personal anthems and instruments of empowerment, using them to mark chapters in their lives both good and bad, in celebration and mourning, from weddings to funerals. Songs like "I Am a Stone," "Carry Me Down," and "Fading Away" continues to resonate with listeners.
Demon Hunter's dedicated supporters and allies around the world wear the group's symbol, lyrics, and album imagery on their shirts, denim vests, backpacks, uniforms, and in many cases, their skin.
Similar to other iconic rock bands, Demon Hunter is now independent, and no longer signed with Solid State Records (the band departed the label on good terms). As an indie band, Demon Hunter is dropping their highly anticipated–and solo-produced–11th record, Exile. They've created an exciting, unique four-part comic series to illustrate the themes of the album.
Alongside their dedicated, financially supporting fanbase in The Blessed Resistance, Demon Hunter is ready to unleash what could be their best release yet (expectations are high for this album). Singles like "Freedom is Dead," "Silence The World," and "Godless" prove that they have what it takes to remain a constant and influential in the metal music world. Here are some of the band's best songs in history as we celebrate the band's latest offering.
"Freedom is Dead" is the first single from Exile. This song truly exemplifies what the new record will be like. In it, we hear plenty of old-school influence, reminiscent of their early music. There's a more evident thrash metal style, as well as some unique vocal takes that are sure to surprise long-time fans. Ultimately, with "Freedom is Dead," the band proves, that after 20 years, they still have a lot to offer their fans. Not to mention the song further proves that they continue to evolve musically.
In 2019, Demon Hunter released two albums simultaneously, War and Peace. As the names suggest, each album leans into the heavier or more melodic side of the band. They've always done a great job of balancing their heavier and melodic sides throughout an album. "Close Enough" is one of the powerful songs on War. One of my favorite parts of the song is drummer Timothy "Yogi" Watts' drumming. The double kick amps up during a clean chorus as opposed to the screaming verses. Lead singer Ryan Clark's gritty vocals are impressive on War.
Another allure to Demon Hunter's music is their expertly written lyrics, helmed by Ryan Clark. Often, spiritual truths are weaved in and out of songs, often in the background or through allegory. In songs like "Jesus Wept," the band is particularly more open about their beliefs. This belief in "Jesus Wept" is a hard truth to take in, though. When we acknowledge that we alone are enough reason for Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, our perspectives can change. This heavy truth is matched with unrelenting aggressive vocals and music. It remains a highlight to this day.
The band's seventh album Extremist, released in 2014, has become a fan favorite, winning over new and old fans alike. Songs such as "Artificial Light" are a major reason why this happened. Extremist boasts a musical mix--intense musical prowess and a powerful variety in vocal technique--that many listeners enjoy. The lyrics highlight hypocrisy and temporary solutions to eternal situations.
Though this album may not have the same recognition in the big picture, The World is a Thorn is my favorite album from Demon Hunter. Bringing with them two new members and a renowned producer, Aaron Sprinkle, the band launched forward with this album. One of the best parts of this one is the guest vocals, featuring three metal music heavyweights. The most famous of which is Bjorn "Speed" Strid, a member of the metal band, Soilwork. With a memorable melody and particularly positive lyrical songwriting, "Collapsing" won over the hearts of many fans and remains one of the most well-known songs from the band.
Storm the Gates of Hell features the explosive "Lead Us Home." Demon Hunter has always been known for catchy, clean choruses in many of their songs, yet "Lead Us Home" heads into the anthemic side of the band. This song is great to hear live, as the anthemic chorus lends itself to fan participation well. "Lead Us Home" is a proclamation of hope for a better day and a forever home with Jesus Christ.
Solid State Records added Demon Hunter to their roster of artists for good reason; they made a great pair. When the band signed on and released a self-titled debut, they became the label's fastest-selling new band at the time. Their sophomore release, Summer of Darkness, raised that bar. This album, much like The World is a Thorn, featured a few guest vocalists and saw the band tip into some heavy tuning and thrashy vocals. Digging into the band's early history with songs like "Not Ready To Die," reminds me of how much their sound has evolved. Two decades later, Demon Hunter remains a cornerstone in metal music. Here's hoping for many more albums and years to come.
Ryan Adams lives with his family in Montana. He has been NRT's Rock Reporter since 2019.
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