01. Beyond The Pillars
02. The Quickening
03. Master Of The Games
04. Not Of The Cruciform
05. Protector And The Horse
06. Into The Archway
07. Sentinel At The Spire
08. Tower Of Dreams
09. Soldiers Of Obscurity

After 8 years, the Demon Bitch is finally back, and they're certainly not in the mood for playing games as they're on a power frenzy.

Demon Bitch is a heavy metal quintet featuring Lord Mars (guitars), Master Commander (drums), Logon Saton (vocals), B. Beastmaster (bass), and Solon Saton (guitars). The band formed in Detroit, Michigan back in 2011, and would eventually go on to release their full-length debut Hellfriends in 2016. Now, after a prolonged absence, the band has re-emerged to unleash their second record, Master Of The Games. Wanting to ensure us that their lengthy absence was not entirely squandered, Demon Bitch set about recording Master Of The Games in 2022, hoping for a worthy follow-up to their reasonably well praised debut; how much success have they found?

The lyrical content (although open for interpretation, according to main lyricist Logon) is based on a loosely themed dark and mysterious fantasy concept involving legends and lore told of the world around us. Much like the debut, Master Of The Games retains the traditional 80s heavy metal spirit and USPM flare, only this time they take things a step further, introducing a more dynamic songwriting approach and sound quality that's much more refined and polished. With an even greater surge of power, more epic moments, and also some 70s hard rock influences, you'll be struck by moments of nostalgia left, right, and centre. You'll hear a variety of influences, spanning the likes of Sanctuary, Fates Warning, Mercyful Fate, and even Thin Lizzy.

"Beyond The Pillars" may seem like an odd introduction to a heavy metal album, being a medieval dungeon synth instrumental and all, but it acts as a great taster for the diverse and epic songwriting that lies ahead. The guitars relentlessly dual between traditional heavy riff melodies and high-speed, ultra-shredding solos. This is led by a rapid, energetic rhythm section. However, the instrumentation is overshadowed by Logon Saton's staggeringly charismatic vocal performance. He seems to hit ranges you don't often hear in modern metal nowadays, and his Warrel Dane-like high-pitched screams are definitely a highlight throughout the album. Although an acquired taste for some (many may find the vocals over-the-top), this style certainly has an element of charm and character that's rarely matched in this modern era of heavy metal.

It seems like Demon Bitch has pulled out all the stops here on this sophomore, and by not sticking to the same formula as the debut they've arguably managed to claim a signature style of their own. I'd say this new approach is a welcome one; it's certainly not short of inspiration and character, nor does it lack an ounce of energy. Each musician pulls off an exceptional performance; there's so much headbanging fun to be heard from the riff melodies and wailing solos, yet, as well as the instrumentation is crafted, it just lacks those memorable hooks that stick with you when it's over. For me, it's the vocals that'll most likely be the best remembered feature in time, but saying that, I see huge potential in this band, and can only see them improving now that they have a sound and style true to themselves.

Performance:	9
Songwriting:	7
Originality:	7
Production:	8