Misfits "The Devil's Rain"

This is the first studio release of original material in twelve years for legendary punk group The Misfits. Bassist/founding member Jerry Only continues to hold down vocal duties since 2003's Project: 1950. And unlike many releases from groups already deemed "legendary," this album is really solid.

A storm comes in during the opening title track and sets up a very well produced, but undeniable Misfits record by utilizing all the classic elements that earned them their stature. The title, like many in the past, comes from a campy horror film starring William Shatner, and with titles like "Land of the Dead" and "Curse of the Mummy's Hand," there is no shortage of B-movie chills. The drums, laid down by Eric "Chupacabra" Arce, are as big and relentlessly driving as ever and Dez Cadena's crunchy guitar breaks only for screaming leads.

Only's crooning vocals are great on a couple of levels. They are reminiscent of the group's Danzig years while being different enough to establish this as a new chapter in their sound (and surpasses the albums sang by Michael Graves). There are plenty of "whoa-ohs" to keep the listener singing along and with lyrical content on songs like "Jack the Ripper" and "Monkey's Paw," they've done a great job of integrating the core elements of their Horror Punk signature.

Not everything about The Devil's Rain is good ol' fashioned Misfits however. Likely due to their study of the genre for Project: 1950, there are strong overtones of 1950's pop, especially for songs such as "Cold in Hell," "Monkey's Paw" and "Where Do They Go?" The result is a little like Frank Sinatra singing a Halloween album. Also the quality of the recording is very heightened and clear, which takes a couple of listens for the longtime fan to get used to but ultimately works very well.

It's impossible to tell if The Devil's Rain contains any classics that will match "London Dungeon" or "We Are 138," but at least it's a good sign that they aren't slowing down or moving in an unsavory direction (if only the same could be said for Metallica and Lou Reed). You can download it here.