Darkest Hour Re-Sign With MNRK Heavy, Begin New Album Sessions With Mark Lewis

Darkest Hour are officially staying in the MNRK Heavy camp. The long-running Washington, D.C. metalcore veterans have re-signed with the label and are set to enter the studio this May to begin work on their eleventh full-length album.

The band will track the effort with producer Mark Lewis (Whitechapel, Cannibal Corpse) at his Nashville, Tennessee studio, marking the first full collaboration between Lewis and the group after years of discussions.

Guitarist Mike Schleibaum said the band is energized heading into the sessions.

“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!”

Lewis added his own excitement about finally teaming with the band.

“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!”

Schleibaum also teased the direction of the new material, describing it as an aggressive blend of the band’s signature eras.

“I’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.”

He continued by praising the current chemistry within the lineup, adding that the rhythm section is “locked in insanely tight,” while vocalist John Henry has taken the lyrics to another level.

Henry echoed that enthusiasm, saying the creative process has felt rejuvenating.

“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.”

“Putting these songs together made me feel like I’m 15 again. For me, it’s the perfect balance of new and classic DH.”

The upcoming release will follow 2024’s Perpetual | Terminal, and based on the early comments, the band appear determined to deliver one of the heaviest and most focused records of their career.

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