Review by Shadowdoom9 (Andi) for Arch Enemy - Deceivers (2022)

It's been ages since I've last listened to an album by Arch Enemy, the last new one I've heard being Will to Power. I've still heard a few songs by the band, but never thought about a full return to their material. After hearing some singles from their new album Deceivers, I took some time to decide whether to give this band another chance. And with their upcoming album Blood Dynasty coming out two months after this review, if I want to listen to Deceivers while it's still fresh, it's now or never...

As with many melodeath bands, Arch Enemy is the kind of band that aims for melody and aggression blended together in great balance. They still haven't dropped their melodic side in the guitar leads and keyboard ether. Vocalist Alissa White-Gluz decided to add more clean vocals than ever, reminiscent of her former band The Agonist.

The diverse opening track "Handshake with Hell" has those cleans in best display. The creativity shines greatly from the epic intro to the energetic rest of the song. ''Deceiver, Deceiver'' (Is it a title track when the name is repeated twice in the title?) blasts through heavy Swedish melodeath, the way At the Gates and In Flames kickstarted it in the mid-90s. "In the Eye of the Storm" is a midtempo anthem, like a march into the war. "The Watcher" is a total thrasher.

Things slow down for the sweet highlight "Poisoned Arrow". Then "Sunset over the Empire" starts with audible bass making way for the harsh vocals and riff melodies. There are even some strings and choirs that almost make this a symphonic death metal track. "House of Mirrors" has some amazing Dark Tranquillity-esque melodeath.

"Spreading Black Wings" has some lyrics that aren't totally bad, but they could've been better written, "Do not fear to tread the left-hand path, I am here spreading black wings". The interlude "Morning Star" is a nice break with some guitar talent. Keyboard melancholy covers "One Last Time" while staying heavy in the instrumentation. The closing track "Exile From Earth" is almost as epic as the opener, with the vocals, soloing, and background atmosphere, reaching great dark heights.

I can witness the greatness the band still has after Will to Power. Alongside the melodic guitarwork, the clean vocals and symphonics add a sweet touch. Deceivers shall give them some new fans, though the earlier ones might be thrown off. I look forward to their new album Blood Dynasty and finding out if it works for their 30-year milestone....

Favorites: "Handshake with Hell", "In the Eye of the Storm", "Poisoned Arrow", "Sunset over the Empire", "House of Mirrors", "Exile From Earth"