In order to start working on their eleventh full-length album, Darkest Hour has announced plans to go into the studio in May. To do this, they are bringing in a major collaborator, as per MetalInjection. Producer Mark Lewis (Whitechapel, Trivium, The Black Dahlia Murder, Cannibal Corpse) has been hired by the Washington, D.C. metal veterans to oversee sessions at his Nashville studio. Mike Schleibaum, a guitarist, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership.
The idea of working with Mark is extremely exciting. He’s been a part of many very successful and legendary metal records, and having his input and vision on all this is going to be important to making this very special album, unique, classic, and perfect!
I’m extremely stoked to finally get in the studio with my old friends in Darkest Hour. Something that has been talked about for ages is happening at the right time. This album will crush! – Mark Lewis
‘m in love with how this record is so thrashy and aggressive, while still maintaining that core melody we are so known for. It’s like the best combination of all the Darkest Hour albums into one, and it’s such a joy to watch all of it come together. The chemistry of the band is on fire right now, with everyone bringing something unique and special to the table. The guitar solos are next level; the band’s drumming & rhythm section is just locked in insanely tight, and I’m really excited about where John took everything lyrically this time. Truly something special and magic in these songs. – Mike Schleibaum
It may seem that after 30+ years and 10 albums, it could be hard to find the inspiration to create something fresh and new feeling, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth with this album. In an era where art feels threatened by technology, the answer for us was to keep it as organic as possible, and you can hear it. This is the sound of five friends getting together and collaboratively creating, and maybe most importantly, having fun while we do it. Putting these songs together made me feel like I’m 15 again. For me, it’s the perfect balance of new and classic DH, and having Mark Lewis, who produces some of our favorite modern metal music, on board is exciting beyond words. Really can’t wait for the world to hear this! – John Henry
The band announced that they have extended their worldwide collaboration with MNRK Heavy, the label behind their 2024 album “Perpetual | Terminal”, in addition to the studio announcement.
We are ecstatic to deepen our relationship with Darkest Hour and continue representing such an influential band on the MNRK roster. Their legacy is built on boundary-pushing consistency and resilience, and after 30 years together, they continue to fan the flames of inspiration in this new era, poised to deliver a landmark career highlight album. – Kyle Frey, MNRK’s Director of A&R