dEUS
How to Replace It
([PIAS] Recordings)
3.5/5
Coming off of a 10-year hiatus, Belgian art-rock band dEUS have re-entered the music scene with their eighth album, How to Replace It.
There are influences from alternative, pop, and electronic rock through the album. The first single, “Must Have Been New,” as well as cuts like “Faux Bamboo” and “Love Breaks Down,” feature tracks more heavily produced than any of their earlier works, while not sacrificing vocalist Tom Barman’s lyrical content. Other songs like “Man of the House” and “Simple Pleasures” also merge this new sound with dEUS’ explorative art rock touch.
Unfortunately, despite the new elements, this record ends up feeling like a watered-down version of their past work. No real boundaries are being pushed, and dEUS continues the trend of rock bands turning to heavy production and simplicity to produce a project that’s, really, quite tame.
Still, although not the most daring project, this fun album will satisfy old fans, and might welcome some new ones.