Review: Pearl Jam's 12th album, Dark Matter, sees the veteran rockers returning to their roots with a renewed sense of vigor. Departing from the reflective tone of their previous release, Gigaton, the band opted for a more spontaneous approach to songwriting, gathering in a room to craft material that feels refreshingly loose and live. The album as a whole delivers some convincing arguments for a classic Pearl Jam collection. Tracks like "'Scared Of Fear,' 'Wreckage,' and 'Setting Sun' showcase the band's trademark grandeur, with muscular guitar leads, powerful drumming, and Eddie Vedder's unmistakable vocals leading the charge. Many long time fans will appreciate this album as a fiery rebirth after a series of more stilted releases. Ultimately, Dark Matter is a audio guidepost to Pearl Jam's enduring identity and their ability to deliver authentic rock music that resonates with both diehard fans and casual listeners alike.
… Read more