This is a calmer, restrained Pearl Jam that still has as much focus and direction as you can imagine. Dark Matter relishes in setting a steady mood. Less wild and fired-up overall than previous releases. The steady mood however is smooth and at times hypnotic in the best ways. Vedder’s voice becomes calming while still having volume. This is much less jam band with huge solos and bridges and more of an experience with five friends sitting down and performing from their hearts. The fired-up moments still exist, such as in the amazing song “Running”, but it’s the reserved songs such as “Scared Of Fear” and “Wreckage” that define Dark Matter with attitude and reflection. As is standard, guitarwork is fantastic from Gossard and McCready. I wish they would have shown off a little more in the run time, but I can’t be upset with what we’ve been given. As Pearl Jam ages, the anger and intensity may be restrained but the writing, direction, soul, it’s still there in the matter. 7/10.
Best Tracks:
“Runnings”
“Scared Of Fear”
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“Pearl Jam, the iconic Seattle-based rock band, is set to release their highly anticipated 12th studio album “Dark Matter” on April 19, 2024. The album is expected to continue the band’s legacy of powerful, introspective rock music that has captivated fans for decades. As the band prepares to embark on a massive world tour in support of “Dark Matter,” the album is poised to solidify Pearl Jam’s status as one of the most influential and enduring rock acts of their generation.” (Perplexity)
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Pearl Jam Dark Matter Album Review
