After a long layoff from recording, hardcore punk rockers, IGNITE, return with Our Darkest Days, a debut for the Abacus label that’s further powered by distribution through the almighty, Century Media. In fact it’s the latter who has released this tour edition which features a more active cover, a video of ‘Bleeding’ and two extra tracks. It’s Bad Religion meets the Offspring, socially awake but easy to get into via persistent melody.
“We built this all from miles away. We sacrificed to see these days and from our hearts we’ll have our say. We built this all, our darkest days,” sings the intro. IGNITE are heartfelt; no clever lyrics but, as a compliment, in touch with the common man. For this reason raging against American foreign policy is not misplaced next to missing a lover. Tracks are well placed so that the pace escalates in the second half, overcoming a lack of variation and a mould that seemed unbroken. The faster tracks are more visible proofs of talented musicianship. ‘Know Your History’ pounds, ‘Strength’ chants, ‘Three Years’ inserts cool guitar and ‘Let it Burn’ inflates with harmony. The cover of ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’ is a mixed affair but would undoubtedly have a concert crowd singing. The acoustic ‘Live for Better Days’ gives a welcome pause from frantic whilst delivering into bonus tracks that don’t match the regular content.
There’s a distinctive Nineties vibe to IGNITE that could be praised or criticized. Either way, Our Darkest Days is a lot of fun, my nodding to the beat (whilst I reviewed) surprisingly leaving me breathless at times.
sinning with Wicked Mike









