Devian - Ninewinged Serpent (Century Media Records) - Back
I was skeptical when I saw the cover of this release. It had a sticker that raved about these guys. After I listened to it the first time, I couldn't stop listening to it! This band was formed by two ex-members of Marduk, "Legion" (Vocals) and Emil Dragutinovic (Drums).

The music is a combination of various genres including Death Metal, Thrash Metal and Traditional Heavy Metal. It's really unique. Their focus was mainly to come up with something different than their previous projects. They've abandoned true Black Metal roots and have put out an album that delivers something entirely remarkable.

You can check out their full biography on their web site, which is http://www.devian.se/.

Rating: 90

Reviewed By: Death8699 - http://www.death8699.com/
Second Review:
Formed by ex-Marduk members Legion (vocals) and Emil (drums), Devian released their first album, “Ninewinged Serpant” in late 2007. Early reports touted “Ninewinged Serpent” as a mixture of death, black and thrash metal, and it is always interesting to hear what metal musicians do when they step outside of the genre that have primarily been associated with. Needless to say, I was excited to hear what Legion and Emil would bring to the table after leaving the confines of black metal behind.

If pressed I would probably have to classify Devian as a melodic death metal band, but it needs to be stated that they have done a masterful job of avoiding the Gothenburg trap. The band has developed a sound that is both familiar and unique at the same time. You hear lots of bits and pieces that remind you of other things, but they are put together in an interesting and different way. It is rare that an album can call to mind both classic Pantera and classic Dissection, yet maintain a unified sound. Legion has abandoned the blackened raps of his Marduk days in favor of a caustic mid-range death growl. His aggressive vocals are really an asset here, bringing together the album’s many ideas with a unifying voice.

All told, “Ninewinged Serpent” has to be considered a successful debut album. It’s both aggressive and interesting, offering a slightly different and refreshing take on melodic death metal. Most extreme metal fans should find something to like here. A fine album, and a job well done.

Rating: 86

Reviewed By: Garett F.