Even though Punk never played an important role in my musical upbringing, I feel quite guilty for not having heard of Deviated Instinct prior to the release of this twenty-five track collection that's entitled "Welcome To The Orgy". Why? Is it because their 1987 four track release, which carries the same title with this collection, was the first ever release from Peaceville records - a label whose releases hold a predominant role in my record collection? Maybe so...I tend to believe, though, that it has more to do with the fact that Deviated Instinct sound more honest and sincere than most of today's pseudo-Punk outfits, and also have been clearly influenced by some of my personal favourite bands.

I have used the word Punk quite a lot so far in my review, and if by doing so, I have managed to make you believe that the only thing that's on offer here is songs that are based on single/simple riffs, then I sincerely apologise. You see, apart from the obvious (and mostly expected) references to bands like Discharge, D.R.I and Napalm Death, the sound of this Norwich-based outfit also flirted with doom and atmospheric themes similar to those of Celtic Frost - a combination that sounds quite interesting and promising.

Now, apart from the above-mentioned 7" release, this collection also contains Deviated Instinct's complete full-length albums "Rock n'Roll Conformity" and "Guttural Breath", so those of you who will decide to invest in it, will manage to get a clear idea of the evolution that has taken place within the band in the period between 1987 and 1989. The first four tracks of this release, which belong on the "Welcome To The Orgy" 7" may sound structurally quite simplistic, yet Rob Middleton's unique vocals and catchy riffs in songs like "Cancer Spreading" are more than rewarding. Production wise, and in the band's own admission, this album sounds slightly primitive (listen to "Despair" for instance), yet I assume that this re-master version makes them sound more audience-friendly than the original recordings.

The following twelve compositions, all of which belong in the "Rock n'Roll Conformity" release, find the band in a slightly different mood and creative direction. The band's normally mid-tempo approach gives way to more Thrash-paced Napalm Death influenced compositions such as "House of Cards" and "When The Chapter Closes" - yet, I felt that it was the rhythmical songs like "Conquest For Eternity" that instantly won my appreciation. As soon as I was introduced to the dark/atmospheric intro of "The Resurrection Encore" and the epic-sounding tunes of "Dripfeeder", I realised that the "Guttural Breath" L.P would definitely be my favourite Deviated Instinct release. Here the band sound far more confident and skilled, and that results in their compositions becoming more varied and technically efficient.

Overall, I was quite pleased with this collection. Its nicely made booklet contains images of the original artwork and lyrics of the above-mentioned releases, which will satisfy not only the band's loyal fans, but also people like myself who were only just introduced to this very interesting band. On the other hand, this uncompromising style was never meant to apply to the masses, so I suggest that you listen to some of these songs before you decide to take part in this musical orgy!

***½

Review by John Stefanis