Deafheaven – “Lonely People With Power” Review
“Lonely People With Power,” the sixth studio album by Deafheaven, marks a compelling return to the band’s heavier roots after the more polished sound of their 2021 release, “Infinite Granite.” Released on March 28, 2025, through Roadrunner Records, this album seamlessly blends the band’s signature black metal intensity with elements of shoegaze and post-rock, delivering a dynamic and emotionally charged listening experience.
The album opens with “Incidental I,” setting a contemplative tone before launching into “Doberman,” a track characterized by relentless drumming and intricate guitar work that showcases Deafheaven’s ability to craft expansive sonic landscapes. “Magnolia,” the lead single, stands out with its aggressive riffs and blast beats, reminiscent of the band’s earlier work, while incorporating nuanced melodies that add depth to the composition.
“The Garden Route” offers a moment of respite with its shimmering guitars and atmospheric layers, highlighting the band’s shoegaze influences. “Heathen” introduces anthemic choruses and a balance between clean vocals and George Clarke’s signature screams, reflecting the band’s evolution in songwriting and dynamic range.
Collaborations on the album add further texture; “Incidental II” features Jae Matthews of Boy Harsher, delivering a haunting spoken-word piece that transitions into a dense, doom-laden soundscape. Similarly, “Incidental III” includes a contemplative narration by Interpol’s Paul Banks, adding a layer of introspection to the album’s thematic exploration of power and isolation.
“Revelator” and “Body Behavior” delve into complex rhythms and lyrical themes, with the latter examining constructs of masculinity through poignant storytelling. The album closes with “Winona” and “The Marvelous Orange Tree,” both tracks encapsulating the band’s ability to weave beauty and brutality into cohesive compositions.
Produced by Justin Meldal-Johnsen, “Lonely People With Power” benefits from a polished yet raw production quality that captures the band’s live energy and intricate musicianship. The album’s pacing and structure demonstrate Deafheaven’s maturity and confidence in navigating their diverse influences.
Overall, “Lonely People With Power” reaffirms Deafheaven’s position as innovators within the post-metal genre, successfully marrying the ferocity of their earlier work with the melodic sensibilities explored in recent years. This album not only satisfies long-time fans but also invites new listeners into the band’s evolving sonic journey.
