The band name suggests metal, but the wreckage wrought by these Aussies is slower and less immediately impactful, like the devastation caused by erosion, rather than natural disaster. The dark specter of countryman Nick Cave looms, and echoes of ’90s-comeback-era Leonard Cohen also abound, particularly on the creeping opener, “Black Ice.” Yes, U never really approaches the level of those masters, though. While there are satisfyingly moody and threatening moments (“Rosa”), it too often plods when it ought to be roaring. JOSH MODELL
Now Hear This: Devastations – “Mistakes” DOWNLOAD MP3
Now Watch This: Devastations – “Rosa (Live From Switzerland, opening for Nine Inch Nails) https://www.youtube.com/embed/nLx8Giba3mU
