An Epic Journey in Two Acts
Dread Fury’s third album, Devil’s Advocate or Heaven’s Prophet, isn’t merely a collection of tracks—it’s an exploration of inner conflict, resilience, and self-discovery. This two-part odyssey, a musical narrative spanning across two discs, delves deep into the human psyche, dissecting the age-old battle between darkness and light, doubt and certainty. Recorded entirely at his home studio in Ilford, England, Dread Fury delivers an all-encompassing experience, where each song builds on the last to form a cohesive story.
Known for his versatility and one-man-band performances, Dread Fury, born in 1983, is a force of nature in the studio, playing all the instruments and providing the vocals. His range of skills allows him to create richly layered compositions without relying on external musicians. This double album further cements his reputation as a groundbreaking artist within the alternative indie-soul scene.
Featuring singles like “Underneath Your Mask” and “Sinner’s Banquet,” Devil’s Advocate or Heaven’s Prophet is as expansive as it is introspective. While fans of his previous work may recognize echoes of his earlier material, this project stands out for its ambitious storytelling and lush arrangements, drawing from a diverse palette of musical influences. From Chuck Berry and Marvin Gaye to Lenny Kravitz and Lauryn Hill, Dread Fury’s musical inspirations seep through every note, crafting an album that feels both retro and modern.
From Ilford to the World
Emerging from the vibrant musical culture of Ilford, Dread Fury has built a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts to come out of the UK’s alternative scene. His performances, often executed with just a loop pedal and his trusty guitar, have captivated audiences and critics alike, earning him a spot in the iTunes R&B charts and accolades like Bandcamp’s “Soul Release of the Month.”
His ability to blend soul, rock, and indie sensibilities with elements of funk and blues has made him a unique voice in today’s music world. Tracks like “Curse of the Devil” and “Miss Super Lady” are fan favorites, showcasing his penchant for catchy hooks and groovy rhythms. But Devil’s Advocate or Heaven’s Prophet takes this a step further, diving into heavier thematic material while retaining the infectious energy of his live shows.
Influences like David Bowie and Stevie Wonder are apparent throughout, but it’s Dread Fury’s ability to seamlessly integrate those influences into his own signature style that truly sets him apart. Whether he’s channeling the electrifying energy of Prince or the introspective lyricism of Joan Armatrading, his music remains distinctively his own.
Themes of Duality
The album is built around the concept of duality—light and dark, heaven and hell, self-doubt and self-acceptance. This theme is explored not just lyrically, but through the music itself. Disc 1, Devil’s Advocate, is darker and more aggressive, packed with heavy riffs and introspective lyrics about internal struggle and the temptations of giving into negative emotions. In contrast, Disc 2, Heaven’s Prophet, offers a more uplifting, soulful vibe, with songs that emphasize hope, redemption, and the power of self-love.
This duality also mirrors Dread Fury’s own journey of self-discovery, as he grapples with his own demons while ultimately coming to terms with who he is. Tracks like “Blaze of Glory” from Disc 1 and “Joy Within My Soul” from Disc 2 showcase the opposing forces within the artist’s mind, offering listeners a glimpse into his inner world.
What makes this project truly compelling is how it encourages listeners to embark on their own journey of introspection. The album speaks to universal themes of identity, purpose, and self-worth, while still being deeply personal to Dread Fury’s own experiences.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
Disc 1: Devil’s Advocate
- Masquerade of the Darkened Hearts: The album opener, created using beatboxed instruments, delivers a soulful vibe with layered vocals reminiscent of the 70s.
- Devil’s Advocate: A funky rock anthem with boombap drums, featuring megaphone-filtered vocals urging the crowd to keep the party going. The track is infused with a Beatles-esque vibe.
- I Get It Done: This track brings a Lenny Kravitz-like energy, with a chill tempo and driving guitar riffs.
- Someone to Tell Me: Featuring a Phil Collins-inspired feel, this track is a melancholic reflection on loneliness and friendship.
- She Wants The Ride: A gritty, guitar-heavy track with echoes of Lenny Kravitz’s “American Woman” and Guns N’ Roses.
- At This Moment in Time: A reflective ballad, featuring deep drum work and a horn section, with contemplative lyrics about life’s fleeting moments.
- Underneath Your Mask (Interlude): A spoken-word piece about the need for transparency in relationships.
- Underneath Your Mask: A playful track with ska influences, blending Arctic Monkeys-like energy with bluesy riffs.
- 30 Pieces: A minimalist, acapella ballad that delves into themes of heartbreak and inner conflict.
- So Much (Blues of an Innocent Man): A soulful, bluesy track with vibes akin to the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Cody Chesnutt.
- Blaze of Glory: A hard-hitting, emotional track reminiscent of Metallica, addressing the pursuit of glory despite life’s struggles.
- Across The Edge (Interlude): A haunting piece featuring a distorted voice that contemplates existence and crossing the edge of the unknown.
- Codeine Cocktail: Gritty vocals over a somber guitar, channeling Johnny Cash’s emotional rawness.
Disc 2: Heaven’s Prophet
- Heaven’s Prophet (Interlude): A moment of introspection, reflecting on the self in the mirror.
- Sinner’s Banquet: A 70s-inspired groove that brings back the rollerskating vibes of yesteryear.
- Exception to the Rule: Upbeat and full of life, this track has a 70s TV theme song feel, with velvet-smooth vocals and a feel-good story of self-transformation.
- Turn It Round: A rhythmic, Chili Peppers-style track urging a turnaround in life.
- On Dignity (Interlude): A reflective, introspective piece about the illusions people project and the search for genuine identity.
- Joy Within My Soul: A groovy, hip-hop-tinged track celebrating the triumph of joy over adversity.
- Ties and Cliques: A heartfelt story about the struggle to break free from social pressures and find peace of mind.
- Could Be Me: A sweet love song about the budding excitement of new relationships.
- Soon, We Can All Go Home Again: A slow, melancholic track about life’s unfairness and the inevitable return to our roots.
- The Last Summary (Interlude): A final introspective moment about forgiveness and redemption.
- My Redemption (I’m Calling Out to You): A somber, emotional plea for redemption and self-forgiveness.
- Second Life: A quirky, upbeat track with circus-like melodies, signaling rebirth and new beginnings.
- Live On: A British ballad that turns from sorrowful to uplifting, speaking to the memories that live on even after we’re gone.
