Grunge giants Pearl Jam have revealed their 12th studio album, titled ‘Dark Matter.’
The upcoming album is the follow-up of the experimental 2020 album, ‘Gigaton.’ The first single, a new track for the first time in four years, apparently has a King Diamond shout-out. In the title track, Eddie Vedder appears to make a subtle nod to King Diamond in the lyrics:
“Denounce the demigods / King diamond to discard / Deploy the dialog / Your word against the law.”
The band premiered the album with an exclusive listening party at The Troubadour in Los Angeles in January, during which Eddie Vedder praised it as Pearl Jam’s ‘best work.’
The Album Is ‘Heavier Than You’d Expect’
The follow-up to 2020’s ‘Gigaton’ is under the production of Andrew Watt, known for his collaboration with Eddie Vedder on the frontman’s 2022 solo record ‘Earthling.’ In an interview with Classic Rock, Mike McCready detailed how Watt, recognized for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and the Rolling Stones, has influenced a shift in Pearl Jam’s approach. The rocker also suggested that Pearl Jam’s upcoming album might bring some surprises for fans:
“It’s a lot heavier than you’d expect. There’s the melody and energy of the first couple of records. Andrew pushed us to play as hard and melodic and thoughtful as we’ve done in a long time. I feel like Matt Cameron’s drumming has elements of what he did in Soundgarden.”
The album will drop on April 19, 2024.
You can hear the new track below.
