Formed during the early eighties, this UK Heavy Metal and Hard Rock outfit is back with their electrifying third album.
Formed during the early eighties, releasing the debut album Shadows of the Night back in 1984, and remaining dormant until 2017 (which culminated with the release of their 2021 sophomore self-titled album), Durham, England-based Heavy Metal outfit Dark Heart is ready to rock once again armed with their third installment, entitled Evolution. Produced by Pete Newdeck and mastered by Harry Hess of Harem Scarem, the new album by vocalist Alan Clark and guitarist Nick Catterick, alongside the more-than-special session musicians Josh ‘Tabbie’ Williams on bass and Pete Newdeck on drums, is a journey back to the glory of the 80’s without sounding repetitive or outdated, always moving forward while staying loyal to the foundations of the NWOBHM.
Crisp, minimalist guitar lines ignite the band’s rockin’ party in Light The Flame, with Alan already showcasing his vocal power supported by the classy guitar work by Nick, sounding perfect for admirers of Melodic Hard Rock. And the guitar riffs and solos by Nick keep embellishing the airwaves in Cold Winter while Josh and Pete bring the groove of the 80’s with their killer kitchen sounds, followed by End Of Tomorrow, a power ballad by the quartet where Alan delivers another solid, emotional vocal performance. Hands Of Fate blends the harmonious sounds of Melodic Rock and AOR, with Pete’s drums dictating the song’s classic pace, whereas Spread Your Wings offers us all another round of melodious riffs and soaring vocals, with its background keys adding a touch of finesse to the overall result.
Then investing in a more old school fusion of Heavy Metal and Rock N’ Roll we’re treated to Ride The Highway, and the final result is obviously electrifying, led by Nick’s razor-edged riffs. Put differently, the name of the song ends up being an invitation. After such a powerful tune we have You And I, presenting an AC/DC-inspired riff and evolving into an AOR feast where all backing vocals support Alan’s vocals in great fashion. Life To Crucify and its 80’s keys will pierce your mind, while the guitar lines by Nick exhale Melodic Hard Rock magic, followed by Eyes Of Light, a more generic version of their own rock music, still enjoyable but not as exciting. Mortality brings forward six minutes of a strong, deep ballad by Dark Heart led by the passionate vocals by Alan; and closing the album we face the dancing tune Burned, again reminding us of the glory of the 80’s while also showcasing a modern, dynamic sound by the band.
As already mentioned, although still rooted in classic NWOBHM, Heavy Metal and Hard Rock, Evolution also reflects the maturity in the band’s songwriting, positioning it as a must-listen for fans of both old school and modern-day rock and heavy music, and if you want to join Alan and Nick in their quest for metal you can start following Dark Heart on Facebook, stream their captivating music on any platform such as Spotify, and of course, put your hands on Evolution by purchasing you favorite version of the album from different locations such as Pride & Joy Music and Rough Trade. This is not just Heavy Metal; it’s an evolution in the style of a band formed in the distant year of 1984, but who’s now “back to the future” and ready to go places to the sound of their exciting new music.
Best moments of the album: Light The Flame, Ride The Highway and Life To Crucify.
Worst moments of the album: Eyes Of Light.
Released in 2026 Pride & Joy Music
Track listing
1. Light The Flame 5:25
2. Cold Winter 4:58
3. End Of Tomorrow 6:20
4. Hands Of Fate 4:31
5. Spread Your Wings 5:10
6. Ride The Highway 5:49
7. You And I 5:25
8. Life To Crucify 4:46
9. Eyes Of Light 4:36
10. Mortality 6:20
11. Burned 4:41
Band members
Alan Clark – vocals, keyboards, backing vocals
Nick Catterick – guitars, keyboards, backing vocals
Guest musicians
Josh ‘Tabbie’ Williams – bass (session)
Pete Newdeck – drums, backing vocals (session)
THE HEADBANGING MOOSE 