DEAF BEAT VANGUARD – Libido-induced Anabasis

RELEASE YEAR: 2026
BAND URL: https://deafbeatvanguard.bandcamp.com/album/libido-induced-anabasis

Given that this highly entertaining gem came out in early June and that I either missed or subconsciously overlooked its release date due to laziness, I shall keep it short and simply tell you why Libido-induced Anabasis by the intriguing outfit Deaf Beat Vanguard is worth your time and money.

This is heavy metal with a twist, for lack of a better phrase. There are obvious parallels to Iron Maiden in terms of galloping parts and clever yet catchy riffs, and even some of the vocal lines conjure up parallels to Maiden’s early days, but Deaf Beat Vanguard throw a lot of progressive elements and curveballs into the heady and occasionally disorientating mix, and there are even funky passages to be discovered and reveled in, too. Many of the melodies are easy on the ear and instantly appealing, but nothing about the song arrangements is conventional or predictable, yet somehow these chaps have succeeded in delivering an exciting and accessible offering that is both groovy and forward-thinking. The best part is that the lyrical concept revolves around the devil, so make sure you pay attention to the words when cranking this one up loud.

This is weirdly charming, quirky stuff, and it is technically impressive to boot, which makes this a rather unique and noteworthy listening experience. Highly recommended to the open-minded metal addicts and prog fanatics out there.