Darkest Hour Set to Release New Album: Perpetual | Terminal
Darkest Hour, the iconic metal band, is poised to make a significant comeback with their first new record in seven years, titled Perpetual | Terminal, set to release on February 23. In anticipation of this momentous occasion, Metal Injection’s Dillon Collins sat down for an exclusive interview with the band’s vocalist, John Henry.
Excitement and Anticipation
John Henry expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness regarding the upcoming release. “It’s something we’ve been working on for a long time,” he noted. With a career spanning over two decades, the thrill of releasing new music hasn’t waned for Henry. “It gets more exciting, less nervous,” he added.
The Impact of COVID and the Seven-Year Gap
Dillon Collins raised the topic of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the band. Reflecting on the seven-year hiatus since their last album, Godless Prophets, Henry explained, “You can take the obvious COVID one out. It was a good thing for the band.” He elaborated on how the break allowed the members to appreciate their passion for music even more.
Creative Freedom and Self-Production
Henry emphasized the creative freedom that came with self-producing Perpetual | Terminal. “We took our time with it. We didn’t have a label pushing us for a release,” he mentioned. This allowed the band to create music on their own terms, resulting in a project that reflects their vision and artistry.
Collaboration with MNRK
While they self-managed the process, they partnered with MNRK, a label that respects their experience and autonomy as artists. “They really let us do our thing,” Henry stated, noting the previously established relationships with the label’s team, which made for a smooth collaboration.
Reflecting on the Past: The Deliver Us Tour
Discussing the Deliver Us tour, Collins asked if revisiting their back catalog inspired the new album. “The title track is like the entire catalog of Darkest Hour in one song,” Henry explained. The band aimed to blend their signature sound with new elements, striving to satisfy both long-time fans and new listeners.
Evolving as a Vocalist
Henry reflected on his growth as a vocalist over the years. “For the first 10 or 15 years, I was singing completely wrong,” he admitted. Now, he approaches songwriting with a broader perspective, focusing on the album as a cohesive piece rather than just individual tracks.
Looking Forward: Focus on the Present
As the conversation shifted to anniversaries, Collins asked if the band would consider revisiting their older albums. Henry expressed a preference for showcasing their current work, stating, “I’m kind of over it. I’m not as much into doing things for nostalgic reasons.” While he appreciates their past, he emphasized the importance of focusing on their evolution as artists.
Thematic Depth of the New Album
Collins pointed out the weighty themes in the new album, such as survival and rebirth. Henry described Perpetual | Terminal as a hopeful record, contrasting it with the darker tones of their previous work. “It’s about what it takes to keep you going,” he reflected, noting a shift towards positivity.
Future Aspirations and Live Performances
As they prepare for an extensive tour, Henry is excited about how the new material will translate to live performances. “The band is the tightest we’ve ever been,” he asserted, highlighting their commitment to delivering an exceptional show. With a focus on professionalism, the band aims to create an engaging experience for their audience.
Conclusion
With the release of Perpetual | Terminal on the horizon, Darkest Hour stands ready to re-establish their presence in the metal scene. Their journey through the challenges of the past few years has not only shaped their music but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for their craft. Fans eagerly await the opportunity to experience the evolution of Darkest Hour both in the studio and on stage.
FAQs
When is Darkest Hour’s new album releasing?
Darkest Hour’s new album, Perpetual | Terminal, is set to release on February 23.
What themes are explored in the new album?
The album delves into themes of survival, rebirth, and positivity, contrasting with the darker tones of their previous work.
How has the band’s approach to music changed over the years?
The band has shifted to a more self-determined creative process, focusing on producing music on their own terms without external pressures.
What can fans expect from Darkest Hour’s upcoming tour?
Fans can expect a tightly executed performance, showcasing both new material and classic tracks, with an emphasis on delivering an exceptional live experience.