Dark Secret – Mind Pollution
Mind Pollution is the debut full length album by the band Dark Secret. Dark Secret is a heavy metal band from Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Dark Secret’s music takes influence from all the different genres of traditional metal, from iconic bands like IRON MAIDEN to SLAYER, MEGADETH and PANTERA.
Nephilim kicks of with galloping chuggings and energetic drums and shows the bands deep roots in 80s. Vocalist Jeff Emilio has different tricks under his sleeves and shows them throughout the record. High pitched screams, layered choral parts and brooding, deeper vocals create a dynamic feel and prevents monotony.
Guitarwork is quite impressive within the genre as well. After simple gallops, Mind Pollution starts revealing the clever harmonies, solos and hooks. Guitarists Mark Shea & Brian Steele has a good chemistry. I especially enjoyed the guitars when it conveys a Megadeth / TESTAMENT kind of thrashy vibes. Although this is heavy metal in its core, there are hints of thrash/speed metal, and this also conributes to the longevity of the record.
The band “mascot” is “Secret Sarah’. The 3rd song (Chronicles of Sarah) is about her. She represents “Good vs. Evil” and the whole album is loosely themed around this battle in our minds. I actually did not care much about the lyrics or the themes but it seems the band put some effort to that too. On the other hand, Patriarch of Science is my favorite song with cathcy vocals, melodic guitars and double-bass drums. Lyrics are inspired from the pandemic and reminds us the uncertainty, anxiety and of course the lack of confidence to the politicians of that time. We’re listening many songs/albums inspired by the pandemic, and Patriarch of Science sits on the better side of the table.
Overalll, Mind Pollution is a nostalgic, yet impressive record with melodic riffs and catchy vocals. Really strong 80s feel and on point production adds depth, and makes it more than a simple heavy metal record. There are some repetition issues and I think its a bit too long for its own good but If you’re into this kind of metal, I’m sure Dark Secret will be a memorable discovery from 2024.
75/100
