Strapping Young Lad
 

I've been listening to Devy's solo stuff for about a year now but I've only recently checked out SYL. So far I LOVE their self-titled CD, and The New Black is turning out damn good. "Fucker" is my favourite song right now.

Anyone else into them?

I listened to them pretty briefly, but I'm not big on his vocals. They're a little too scratchy to me, makes it sound like he's hissing instead of growling. (Kinda like Bodom)

Are there any songs you'd recommend that have more of a melodic bent to them, like In Flames?

"Fucker" from their new album and "Love?" from Alien. Not exactly In Flames-ish, but being an IF fan myself, I'd judge them as being kind of close.

Heh, they also have a song called Skeksis. Might interest you :P

I only have Alien so far, but what an incredible record!

Gene Hoglan is a MONSTER on the drums. My only complaint is that there's so many guitar tracks (or synth, or a CHOIR) that the bass can get buried.

My favorite tracks are "Skeksis" and "Thalamus," probably. I picked up the album after hearing Devin's track ("Loser") on Ayreon's "The Human Equation."

He also has a sweet skullet.

Wasn't expecting this thread. SYL used to be a local band in my city. I guess they've gotten a bit more popular.

That´s cool knkwzrd! I definitely think SYL and Devy´s solo work is pretty popular nowadays :)

Personally I only listened to the first half of City, and some single songs from the new album. I like their songs but most of the time the production job is hurting my ears - maybe I´m just too weak for that stuff.

Gotta have to agree that Gene Hoglan is absolutely stunning on the drums - I´m always surprised how fast he can move.. I mean... *cough*

Oh before I forget, anyone heard the new song?
http://mp3.centurymedia.com/syl/then.../syl_usuck.mp3

SYL are good, I got into them about 3 years back and my album of choice is city. I saw them back on their headlining '05 tour, and for some reason, they were with awful bands. I dont know the names of the bands, but what I do know is that a good 1/3 of the audience were dressed in emo attire, and by the time syl came on, the audience had shrunk a great deal. God damn I hate metalcore, but now Im just rambling =/

I think Alien is their best, myself. They really put the effort into making a quality album, not just some great tracks with filler. I like albums that you need to listen to in their entirety to really enjoy.