The “final form” of the series is officially here, Darko US take to Instagram to promote the
final piece of the 'DETHMASK' trilogy. The American duo, consisting of vocalist Tom Barber
and multi-instrumentalist Josh Miller, bring to life their much awaited album 'DETHMASK 3'.
Since their formation in 2020, Darko US have been treating fans to a fresh spin on death-
core with a melodic, groovy undertone, and this latest instalment is no different. Offering a
deeper, more intimate sound, 'DETHMASK 3' brings listeners closer to the soul of Darko US. The album opens with the one minute long song 'Introduction', which lulls you into that pre gig buzz concert-goers will know all too well. The loud, indistinct chatter as you’re waiting for the lights to go down and the band to storm on rings through your ears. You hear cheers erupt as you notice movement from backstage, you hear fans start to chant and then the distinct sound of electronic beats start up, as the “fine young gentlemen” of Darko US slam their way into your ears, bringing a “very, very, special experience".
'Mallet Pulse' promptly opens with the guttural sounds of Barbers unique vocals. Barber has
crafted his own charm and many will recognise his tones, as the previous vocalist of Lorna
Shore, but with Darko he brings a whole new sense of style and 'Mallet Pulse' is incredible
evidence of this. With this evolution of the bands sound, comes a defined new style - electronic mixed with intense, concentrated vocals that provoke the listeners heart rate to increase.
Calming, dulcet tones come next, with 'The Chain Hand' convincing listeners they are on a
journey of discovery. Lulled into a new space, focusing more on the synth heavy sound
Darko love to exploit to bring fans an experience of musical fullness. Reassuring you that
whilst they know how to crush a heavy set of vocals, they can also push that slightly aside to
let their full talents shine through, whilst keeping the listener completely engaged in the storytelling.
As the album progresses, you are engaged in a battle of the self; ideas of self worth, self
discovery and perhaps at the end of it all self acceptance. But in order to get there, Darko
forces you to ask if you’ve ever dreamt of a better version of yourself: 'HAVE YOU EVER' is
punctuated with the use of gunshots in the background, which add to the feeling of
uncertainty and the idea that you don’t really know where this album is taking you. It leaves
you guessing what’s coming next, but simultaneously makes you screw your face up
because it’s just that good! This song also features vocals from 15 year old Caleb Douthett,
vocalist for a small Michigan based aliencore band, Trashcan Murder Ride, and Keilokei of
Slay Squad 111. Their features on this song come from a competition and yet do still truly enhance the song, even from small snippets of their vocals.
Nearing the end, 'Gizamachi' is a short but sweet instalment, reminding you that “this is
the finale”. Including the name of the album in a song is old news, yet Darko keep on reworking cliches with a fresh style, and when you hear “This is DETHMASK 3” in an ethereal,
futuristic voice, you are reminded why Darko has such a solid fanbase. The steady beat
conjures up emotions inside, your feel a lump form in your throat as you know you are nearing the end of this melodic expedition.
This feeling only continues with the final addition 'GRIM REAPER AND A UZI' as you intrude on a conversation that brings you back to reality. Ending with a beautiful, balladic song all thanks to the hauntingly good vocals of indie artist Layzi, you know Darko US have ended
the DETHMASK trilogy in the most perfect way. There is no sense that anything has been
left unsaid, or missed. Darko knew exactly the direction they were taking this album, and in
just 27 short minutes, the listener has been given an thorough insight into deathcore as a
genre, and just how expansive that can be. Anyone who listens to this album, will be left eagerly awating whatever this incredible duo will conjure up next.
Words: Emily Bancroft
Photos/Videos: Darko US
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