Jack the Joker: The Devil to Pay in the Backlands

Take Haken’s technicality, Vanden Plas’ melodic style, and The Mars Volta’s eclectic nature, add in a mix of harsh and clean vocals alongside touches of Brazilian percussion, and you get Jack The Joker.

The musicianship from these young players is undeniable and often jaw-dropping. They push their instruments to the limit and craft a sound that’s packed with detail and daring complexity. For me, though, the constant barrage of technicality can feel overwhelming, especially across an album that runs over the 60-minute mark. It becomes a challenging listen in one sitting... though I have no doubt that technical enthusiasts who thrive on the djent-influenced side of progressive metal will find plenty to celebrate here.

Personally, I found the more memorable and enjoyable moments in tracks like “Denied,� “Neblina,� and “Cabaret,� where the blend of virtuosity and atmosphere struck a balance that resonated with me.

Overall, The Devil to Pay in The Backlands is a bold and ambitious record that showcases immense talent and creativity. For my own taste, I’d place it around the 3.5 to 3.75 out of 5 range, but make no mistake, this is an album with the kind of musicianship and singular style that will certainly have its audience and earn plenty of praise among prog-metal devotees. Cheers!

Track Listing:
1. Devir (5:14)
2. Between The Sky Lines (5:16)
3. Denied (5:54)
4. XV (8:56)
5. Neblina (5:58)
6. Sun (4:32)
7. You (Where I Belong) (4:08)
8. Thousand Witnesses (4:53)
9. Cabaret (4:55)
10. Saudade (4:27)
11. Hope (13:00)

Added: September 17th 2025
Reviewer: Jose Antonio Marmol
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 23
Language: english

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