Over the past couple of years, the Antananarivo, Madagascar-based JOVM mainstays LohArano — Mahalia Ravoajanahary (vocals, guitar), Michael Raveloson (bass, vocals) and Natiana Randrianasoloson (drums, vocals) — have received attention nationally and internationally for a unique, boundary pushing sound that blends elements of popular and beloved Malagasy musical styles like like Tsapiky  and Salegy with heavy metal. 

The Malagasy JOVM mainstays latest EP, the recently released DEVL features six explosive songs that sees the band ranging sonically and stylistically from metal to pop punk. The EP’s latest single, EP title track “DEVL” is a punchy and frenetic System of a Down-meets-Cinemechanica-like ripper, anchored around down-tuned bass, scorching riffage, and off-kilter Math rock rhythms paired with Ravoajanahary’s punchy and defiant delivery. Much like their previously released work, “DEVL” continues a run of material that frankly and boldly comments on the sociopolitical concerns of their homeland with a sharp incisiveness — while telling the listener what’s its like to a rocker in a country where rock is still subversive.

The accompanying video features the band’s Ravoajanahary as the devil, tempting others to do drugs, drink, party — and to mosh the fuck out. I don’t know about you, but it seems like a helluva lot of fun to me. Can I join?