dEUS – If You Don’t Get What You Want (2004): A Raw, Unfiltered Rock Punch
Let’s get one thing straight: dEUS doesn’t mess around. Their 2004 self-released album If You Don’t Get What You Want hits like a freight train fueled by Belgian grit and Tom Barman’s unapologetic vision. This isn’t your polished, overproduced rock crap—it’s alternative rock with teeth, scars, and attitude to spare. And yeah, it’s got that raw edge only a band from Belgium could pull off.
The title track, “If You Don’t Get What You Want,” slams you right outta the gate. It’s not just catchy; it’s fucking relentless. The guitars bite hard, the rhythm section grooves like it owes you money, and Barman’s lyrics? Dude sounds pissed but poetic—like he’s spitting out his frustrations over life while still making you wanna nod your head. There’s something about how the chorus explodes into this chaotic swirl of noise that sticks with you long after the song ends. Like, holy shit, did they really just do that?
Then there’s another cut on here—I won’t spoil which one—that sneaks up on you like a street fight in an alleyway. Starts off slow, almost teasing you, then BAM! It flips into this jagged riff-fest that feels equal parts reckless and calculated. CJ Bolland deserves props for engineering this beast because the sound is so damn tight it hurts. Every kick drum hits like a punch to the gut, and Peter Deimel’s mix keeps everything razor-sharp without losing its soul.
Artwork-wise, Cult Of M and Meulemans nailed it too. That cover art screams rebellion—like someone took all their pent-up anger and turned it into visuals. You can tell every detail was thought through, even if it looks messy at first glance. Kinda like the album itself.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this record feels like eavesdropping on a conversation between genius and chaos. It’s imperfect, sure, but that’s what makes it unforgettable. By the time the last note fades away, you’re left wondering whether you should light something on fire or write poetry. Maybe both.
So yeah, If You Don’t Get What You Want might not be perfect, but who cares? Perfection’s boring anyway. What matters is that dEUS gave zero fucks and made something real. Oh, and fun fact—they self-released this bad boy. No label breathing down their necks telling them to play nice. Respect.
Now go listen to it. Seriously. Just don’t blame me if your brain starts melting halfway through.
