ALBUM REVIEW: Suffer Divine – Darkest Hour
After a 7 year gap, metalcore mainstays DARKEST HOUR made their triumphant return in 2024 to a hugely positive response with 10th studio album Perpetual Terminal. With no signs of slowing down, the inspired outfit got right back into writing mode to work on what we now know as Suffer Divine, which is available now via MNRK Heavy. With guitarist Nico Santora firmly embedded in their ranks the band have ushered in a new and exciting chapter. Can they keep that momentum going?
All Cruelty Springs From Weakness kicks off with a collection of ear piercing screams which quickly lead into the snappy hooks of Gods Of Decay. Energetic drumming also joins the fold amongst polished lead sequences. DARKEST HOUR are zoned in and aren’t here to mess around. No Conquered Hearts keeps the riffing at a heightened pace as they contribute to a vibrant, anthemic chorus. Salvation adopts this mentality, rumbling along the horizon before launching to the forefront. Every layer sits nicely in the mix, ensuring every instrument gets its share of the spotlight.
Suffer Divine knocks it up a gear. The rapid rhythmic flurries will undoubtedly go down a storm with the live crowds. Warrior offers a steadier but similarly effective tempo. Every note rings out as clear as crystal, further exhibiting the prowess possessed by the masterful guitar duo of Mike Schleibaum and Nico Santora. Vile Angel displays a darker tone, amplifying the importance of the lyrical narrative. Additional fretboard blazing runs make their presence felt. The Unforgiving Hand opts for a solemn, acoustic opening which is bolstered by an extensive but sublime lead segment that is tasteful enough as to not outstay its welcome.
Tribalist keeps you guessing with slick switches in stride. Another powerful chorus is unleashed which will embed itself in your memory. Everyday Horrors lets the drums do the talking, setting the scene before launching headfirst into a pile of razor sharp riffing. If this track doesn’t get the pits warmed up nothing will. The grand finale, A Story Of Redemption is colourful and invigorating. It cleverly chooses its moments to let things breathe as well as showcasing their proficient musicianship and just how well they gel as a unit. A fitting end to an impressive outing.
DARKEST HOUR have more than earned their stripes at this stage and it would be easy for them to dial it in and rest on their accomplishments, but that is just not how they operate. They’ve achieved over 30 years as a collective and they still sound as hungry and eager to surpass their previous instalments. Suffer Divine sounds fresh, full of experimentation and would confidently stack up against any of the genre’s hottest contenders. Their story is far from over.
Rating: 9/10
Suffer Divine is out now via MNRK Heavy.
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