Pearl Jam – “Dark Matter”

Almost thirty five years and twelve albums into their career, Pearl Jam are still producing quality music. “Dark Matter” is probably their most coherent and consistent album since the mid nineties, showing that they are growing older extremely gracefully.

Opening track “Scared of Fear” sets things up wonderfully, a stirring alternative rock anthem that immediately grabs the attention. From there, Eddie Vedder’s distinctive voice soars through the eleven tracks, with the dual guitars of Stone Gossard and Mike McCready sounding as good as they’ve ever sounded.

“Waiting For Stevie” is set to become a Pearl Jam classic, while closing song “Setting Sun” is a slow burner that builds to a thrilling ending for the album.

“Dark Matter” is one of Pearl Jam’s very best records. Echoes of their grunge roots mix with modern alternative rock in the best possible way.

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