While most thrash outfits don’t survive seven full-length releases, Darkest Hour have done it in stride. But with aging members comes an evolution through new partnerships––which is a sugar-coated way of saying that the band’s team-up with producer Taylor Larson (Periphery) for their eighth release may have been questionable. The “clean-vocals” are soothing to hardcore/hybrid fans, but jarring to the DH faithful—personally, I don’t mind. But naysayers shall fear not as “The Great Oppressor,” “Lost for Life” and “Hypatia Rising” include the moshing material needed for future circle pits. – Andy Mesecher
Producer: Taylor Larson
Score: 7 out of 10
