10 Years | Inner Darkness Review

10-Years-5-finger-review-feature

10 Years | Inner Darkness Review

by Griff Stevens

10-Years-5-Finger-Review-CD10 Years has long been a band unafraid to push their boundaries, and their latest EP, Inner Darkness, is no exception. This six-track collection, released via Mascot Records on October 11, 2024, reflects the band’s push for sonic versatility, introspective lyricism, and willingness to explore new creative avenues. Known for their unique blend of hard rock, alt-metal, and post-grunge, 10 Years have delivered an EP that delves deep into themes of isolation, internal conflict, and emotional release, all while staying true to their signature sound.

The EP opens with “The Optimist,” featuring the powerhouse vocals of Conquer Divide’s Kia Taylor. This collaboration brings a refreshing dynamic to the song, as Taylor’s voice intertwines with Jesse Hasek’s, creating a rich contrast between her soaring range and his emotive delivery. The decision to rework “The Optimist” with Taylor adds an extra layer of depth, transforming a previously familiar track into something invigorating and new. The song is a blend of hard-hitting riffs, melodic hooks, and a chorus

As the EP progresses, “Gravity” pulls listeners into the heavier side of 10 Years. Driven by the twin guitars of Brian Vodinh and Matt Wantland, this track boasts an array of textural shifts that keep listeners on their toes. The contrast between the aggressive verses and the more melodic chorus creates a captivating dynamic, with Hasek’s vocals adding weight to the song’s themes of falling under the pressure of life’s burdens.

“Rise” follows with an intriguing blend of electronic elements and metal. Grennor’s bass acts as a bridge between the10-Years-1 atmospheric synths and the guitar riffs, offering a smooth transition between the EP’s more electronic-driven moments and its heavier sections. The breakdown in the pre-chorus, which features Hasek’s vocals tinged with subtle electronic effects, builds anticipation before the track erupts into a chorus that feels cathartic and anthemic.

“Speechless” takes a different approach, emphasizing 10 Years’ melodic capabilities. The grunge-inspired guitars offer a slightly nostalgic tone, while Hasek’s vocal performance is versatile, shifting seamlessly between vulnerability and power. The melancholic lyrics resonate deeply, making “Speechless” a standout track that showcases the band’s ability to balance introspection with musical intensity.

“I Remember” shifts back to a more metal-driven sound, with its haunting riff and relentless energy. This track is where 10 Years excels—delivering heavy, aggressive music with emotional underpinnings. The straightforward structure allows the raw power of the instrumentation and Hasek’s voice to take center stage, resulting in a track that feels both visceral and satisfying.

“The Trench” begins with an eerie synth intro, building tension before exploding into a heavier, faster-paced track. The interplay between Hasek’s lead vocals and the electronically altered backing vocals adds a futuristic touch to the song, reinforcing the EP’s theme of internal struggle. The rapid shifts in pace and intensity give “The Trench” a dynamic quality, keeping listeners engaged until the final note.

The EP concludes with a reprise of “The Optimist,” this time without Kia Taylor’s contribution. While this version offers listeners a glimpse of the song in its original form, there is an undeniable sense that something is missing. However, this choice allows for a reflection on the band’s core sound and how collaborations like the one with Taylor can elevate and transform their music.

Inner Darkness is a compelling snapshot of where 10 Years currently stands in their career. Clearly, the band continues to evolve sonically and thematically, but without losing the edge that has defined them for over two decades. The EP is a thoughtful exploration of the darkness that resides within us all, and it’s through the band’s introspective songwriting and powerful instrumentation that they offer a sense of catharsis. The blend of electronic elements, heavy guitar work, and Hasek’s emotionally charged vocals create an engaging listening experience from start to finish.

10-Years-2With a full-length album slated for 2025, Inner Darkness is a strong precursor to what lies ahead for 10 Years. If this EP is any indication, fans can expect a continued evolution of the band’s sound with even more depth, aggression, and emotional honesty.

 

 

 

5 Finger Review Rating!

5 Finger Review Rating!

Artist:  10 Years
Album: Inner Darkness
Label: Mascot Records

Release Date: October 11, 2024

About the author

Griff Stevens
Griff Stevens

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