Darkest Hour

I'll never quite figure out why some independent bands generate buzz and become a common reference point among indie fans and others seem to shine in obscurity. But sometimes it's a damn shame, as in the case of Slackjaw. I rarely hear of anyone who knows of this Portland, Ore. trio, but after several albums, nationwide touring, and a new album and label, their time may have finally come. Darkest Hour is a brilliant piece of post-hardcore emphatic rock that picks up where their previous release on M-Theory Records, 2000's Curvature of the Earth, and improves on that album's sound. Still present are the tight, melodic guitar lines, Eric Schopmeyer's edgy yet beautiful voice, intrinsically woven piano, pounding drum rhythms, and soaring song structures. There's not doubt that this band rocks, but they don't hurl it in your face, instead preferring to take you for a ride in their emotional and powerful songs. -contraphonic-