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FLAT BLACK
Dark Side Of The Brain
Fearless Records

Jason Hook's departure from FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH (FFDP) indeed shocked many in the metal community, given that FFDP is one of the most successful modern heavy metal bands. Walking away from such a high-profile gig is unusual, especially for a musician who played a pivotal role in the band's rise. Hook joined FFDP in 2009 and contributed to some of their biggest albums, helping shape their signature heavy, groove-laden sound. In today's music industry, where cross-genre collaborations and side projects are common, many musicians prefer to balance their main band with other creative ventures. However, completely leaving an already successful band to start anew is rare. It speaks to Hook's desire for artistic freedom and perhaps a need to explore different musical directions. It's not unusual for artists to feel stifled creatively in long-term projects and yearn for new challenges, but the decision to start the "grind all over again" shows his willingness to take risks. Enter Hook's new project, FLAT BLACK via Fearless Records.

The metal scene, while loyal, can be unforgiving when artists walk away from beloved projects. But Hook's reputation as a skilled guitarist, along with his years of experience, could provide him with a platform just strong enough to build something fresh. Whether his solo work will resonate on the same level as FFDP remains to be seen, but his bold choice is bound to intrigue both fans and the wider music world. I'll admit that I am a little late to the game with reviewing FLAT BLACK's new release titled Dark Side of the Brain. There's a reason for that, but it's likely to get me ostracized from the metal world! I'll admit that the first time the opportunity to review this album came around, I quickly declined. First of all, I am not a fan of FFDP and I honestly assumed that this venture would sound like more of the same. Secondly, I'm not drawn to the music of Corey Taylor. There it is! The cat's out of the bag and I said it out loud to the entire world. At any rate, these two facts discouraged me from even entertaining the idea of listening to the album. Then, I heard the first two releases, "It's Your Lack of Respect" and "Nothing To Some" which further solidified my conviction that this was not the album for me.

As luck would have it, "A Bit of Lightning" somehow showed up on my playlist and I actually LOVED IT! This song proved to be my gateway to one of the best albums I've heard all year! Other than the two songs that I consistently choose to skip, this album is wickedly good! When the second opportunity to review Dark Side of the Brain I found myself jumping at the opportunity. This is my way of eating a little crow after unjustly judging a book by its cover.

The opening track "It's OK to Be Angry" sets a bold tone, immediately pulling the listener into a gripping sonic experience. The juxtaposition of a calm, haunting introduction with the eruption of chaos mirrors the internal battle of emotions, perfectly aligning with the song's theme of anger. The voiceover speaking about the benefits of anger adds a psychological layer to the track, giving it depth and making the listener contemplate the complexities of the emotion. The song shifts from a gentle, almost eerie guitar melody into a storm of heavy riffs and pounding rhythms making a powerful statement. Nick Diltz's bass and Rob Pierce's drumming intensify the fury, giving the song a raw, visceral energy that elevates the anger to a purifying level. By the time Wes Horton adds his demanding vocals, the song itself feels as if it's ready to combust. Just as you feel the rage might subside, Hook's violent guitar solo shatters any sense of calm, reinforcing the theme that anger doesn't fade away-it merely lingers waiting to erupt. The track leaves you with the sense that anger, while momentarily pacified, always lurks beneath the surface, ready to ignite once again. As the first song of the album, it sets a high bar and establishes an uncompromising tone that will carry through the rest of the record.

The second track, "Justice Will Be Done", immediately grabs your attention with its hard-driving sound that takes you back to the familiar style of FFDP. The aggressive riffs and pounding rhythm lay down a foundation of intensity that seems recognizable, but quickly distinguishes itself through Horton's both fierce and melodic vocal approach. While this song is a screamer at heart, it carefully strikes a balance between aggression and emotion that elevates it to another level.

As previously noted, "A Bit of Lightning" is a pivotal track on the album, marking a significant departure for Hook from his FFDP stylings. This song reveals a softer, more melodic side of Hook's artistry, showcasing his growth and willingness to explore new musical territories. The ballad-like harmony, smooth guitar riffs, and Horton's raw vocals create a powerful combination, making it an exceptional track. It's rare for a single song to reshape your perception of an album, but "A Bit of Lightning" has that effect, offering listeners a deeper, more introspective experience compared to some of the heavier tracks on the album. Similarly, "Unwanted" and "Villain" follow this same formula, blending smooth, melodic instrumentation with unbridled vocals to create songs that feel deeply personal. These tracks stand out as they break away from the heavier, more aggressive mold that defines much of Hook's previous music, instead offering a nuanced mix of introspection and musicality. While they still contain plenty of energy and intensity, they strike a different emotional chord, making them memorable in their own right.

The tracks "Sideways", "Halo" and "Dark Side of The Brain" emerge as potential singles that could easily catch the attention of both fans and radio stations alike. These songs have all the elements of modern rock and metal hits-heavy, attention-grabbing intros, infectious melodies in the choruses, and a perfect blend of memorable riffs all wrapped around a dynamic guitar solo. Each song showcases Hook's undeniable guitar prowess, with shredding solos that add to the overall emotion of the song. Horton's vocals further elevate these tracks with his ability to switch from powerful, raw aggression to more melodic, emotionally resonant singing which highlights his range and versatility.

At the end of the day, Dark Side of The Brain isn't just a good album - it's a damn good one. The album masterfully combines heavy-hitting drums and screaming guitars with a wide array of vocal styles, ranging from soothing melodies to guttural roars, striking a near-perfect balance for any metal or hard rock fan. Jason Hook's departure from FFDP has resulted in an exciting evolution of his sound, but the energy and intensity remain intact, with a fresh perspective and new artistic freedom. In all sincerity, if this album can change my mind, I think it will resonate with long-time FFDP fans as well.

There's something in Dark Side of The Brain for everyone, whether you're drawn to brutal, high-energy tracks or more introspective ballads, this album covers it all. Give it a listen. You won't be sorry.

4.8 Out Of 5.0