The Devil Wears Prada

Color Decay

With Color Decay, The Devil Wears Prada have proven they can create music of any genre and do so with the highest levels of excellence and originality. The singles alone show their versatility, as each one showcases a different side of this record. From the headline single, “Sacrifice,” they show they can write a near-perfect metalcore track, fit with catchy riffs, larger-than-life choruses, and an earth-shaking breakdown.

No stone is left unturned on Color Decay, exploring every creative possibility and striking gold seemingly every time. Rather than conforming to tropes and norms, this record has its ebbs and flows, setting its own rhythm for what is to come. Whatever your expectations are for the metalcore giants’ newest chapter, throw them out the window and prepare yourself for so much more.

The synergy of frontman Mike Hranica and guitarist/singer Jeremy DePoyster has been effortlessly honed for a brilliantly crafted dynamic. Thematically, the contrast between the harsh screams and beautiful singing hits the nail on the head for what Color Decay is all about. Whether it’s the sonic head-butt that is “Watchtower” or the unique and experimental spoken-word ballad “Twenty-Five,” there is a certain quality of their juxtaposition that works effortlessly. There is no reason that a group of tracks that are so different should mesh together as smoothly as they do, yet this record seamlessly follows the path that the band intended.

From the introduction, “Exhibition,” it is made clear that the listener is in for a ride. The bouncing riffs and high-flying chorus are emblematic of what is to come. “Time,” the fourth single, beautifully displays the contrast highlighted in this record, with a chorus that sounds almost like a pop song followed by an in-your-face riff that sets the tone for how aggressive the sound can be. A major highlight of the song is its ending and bridge; the listener fully expects the song to culminate in a booming breakdown, yet it builds to what would be best described as a “chill-down.” There is a slow riff and the ambience and atmosphere illustrate the somber, reflective view of how far the band has come. In the music video, this moment shows the band walking in the street, giving a thought of the journey that has come to pass and the journey that still lies ahead.

In a genre that can dwell in the past at times, The Devil Wears Prada continue pushing the envelope and show that they are capable of evolving their sound like no other, while still remaining true to who they are.

The record’s penultimate track, “Hallucinate,” picks up the pace after a few slower songs in a uniquely heavy industrial-influenced track. Many electronic elements add a new layer to Color Decay and serve as a reminder that The Devil Wears Prada can still make you bang your head. Finally, “Cancer” ties an exquisite bow on the album, which has traversed so many different sonic environments. The sorrowful lyrics, combined with powerful instruments, ultimately build into lo-fi acoustic strumming as the track fades and Color Decay comes to an end.

In a genre that can dwell in the past at times, The Devil Wears Prada continue pushing the envelope and show that they are capable of evolving their sound like no other, while still remaining true to who they are. No one sounds like they do, and they fully lean into their uniqueness to craft a listening experience that stands apart from the competition. There is something for everyone to enjoy on this record, which is a definitive marker of how far this band has evolved from their early roots. An emotional work of art, Color Decay is a record for both diehard fans and those who are new to this scene.