With a name like 'Demon' many people reading this, would probably expect a review for a 'Thrash Metal' album, but you couldn't be further from the truth. With a style between lighter 'British Metal' bands like 'Magnum' and 'Uriah Heep' combined with a mix of 'Prog' aka 'Pink Floyd' and even 'King Crimson', 'Demon' have a pretty unique style all of their own. 'The Plague' is quite an intelligent release and although not conceptual, the tracks are heavily inspired by the 'Cold War', and anti-establishment undercurrents run throughout, the order of the day back in 83'.

The apocalyptic title first track, builds from an eerie intro into a solid energetic rocker, with gusty chorus and strong melodic guitar work, very reminiscent of work from 'Uriah Heep's' 'Abominog'. The adventurous 'Nowhere to Run', incorporates some great lyrics that respectable vocalist 'Dave Hill' does credit, the rhythm is smooth and flowing, and the overall feel is very melodious and sounds ahead of its time. The subtle intro to 'Fever in the City' is definitely inspired by 'King Crimson', the fine keyboard work being a dead give away. Again another audacious number, layered with great vocal pieces, over dubbed voices and some very crisp keyboards. 'Blackheath' although basic is a very enjoyable chorus heavy sing-a-long, that at times sounding like a mix between 'Accept' and 'Magnum'. The second half of the album is a bit of a disappointment, it opens with 'Blackheath Intro' why this isn't before the previous track I don't know, If it had, the song 'Blackheath' would have been all the stronger for it. 'The Writings on the Wall' is lyrically predictable and weak and all told is well under produced, and its six minutes are in dire need of cutting back. Unfortunately 'The Only Sane Man' is just as poor with some dreary lyrics and a lacklustre feel throughout. Better is the uplifting closing track 'A Step to Far' with its lively rhythm and well layered structure making for a clever and bold closing track.

An interesting release, with some thought provoking lyrics and interesting arrangments, but musically the album falls a little short with its light weight second half.