At 25 minutes and seven songs, you could could call “Inner Darkness” a mini album. They’ve gone for EP but whatever, it is a powerful display of the band’s ability to weave hard rock with raw emotion, making it both an explosive and introspective experience. From the very first track, a version of “The Optimist,” it’s clear that the band still dominates their distinctive niche in dark, US-sounding rock, with their unmatched talent for crafting hooks that leave a lasting impression. It’s the kind of song that solidifies 10 Years as masters of their craft, setting the tone for an album that brims with both energy and depth.
“I Remember” stands out as a highlight, offering a perfect balance between ambition and vulnerability. Jesse Hasek’s vocals, filled with raw emotion, deliver lyrics that feel like they’ve been wrenched from his very soul. The line “hanging by a thread” feels particularly poignant, capturing the sense of struggle and resilience that permeates the album. The addition of soaring moments, like in “Rise,” helps elevate the record. Here, 10 Years ventures into new sonic territory with a 90s-inspired electro pulse, echoing the desire to “break free from the paradigm,” which aligns with the album’s overarching themes of defiance and self-liberation.
One of the most exciting collaborations on the album is with Conquer Divide, who add an extra punch to the already intense “The Optimist.” Their contribution amplifies the track’s intensity, pushing it into even more meaningful and potent territory.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of “Inner Darkness” is how seamlessly 10 Years can move between rage and reflection. “Gravity” is a prime example of this duality, where the track’s heaviness is not just in its instrumentation but in its emotional weight. Despite its brooding tone, the band doesn’t sacrifice nuance; there’s a sense of light and shade here, with hints of progressive elements creeping in towards the end. This same complexity bleeds into “Speechless,” underscoring the band’s ability to defy genre conventions and remain unpredictable.
“The Trench” channels the same 90s industrial rock influences that fans of bands like Stabbing Westward will recognise. Hasek’s vocals are rawer and harsher than expected, adding a visceral layer to the track that keeps the listener on edge. It’s moments like this that remind us of the band’s versatility and their refusal to be pigeonholed.
In “Inner Darkness”, 10 Years delivers an album that feels cathartic and relentless, packed with moments of both fury and fragility. Their ability to push boundaries while staying true to their signature sound makes this a formidable entry in their already stellar catalogue.
Rating 8.5/10
