Review by Chetan Malik

Despite the Black's latest album, 6 XII 18, is a tour de force of heavy metal mastery. The band's signature blend of crushing riffs, soaring vocals, and atmospheric textures is on full display across these 11 tracks, which showcase the group's ability to craft complex, dynamic songs that are both aggressive and nuanced.

From the opening salvo of "Echoes of the Void," the listener is immediately drawn into the band's world, with its thunderous drums, chugging guitars, and eerie synth lines setting the stage for vocalist Peter Tuthill's powerful, emotive singing. The album's title track is another standout, with its propulsive rhythms, haunting backing vocals, and searing guitar solos building to a cathartic climax.

Throughout the album, Despite the Black demonstrate a keen sense of songcraft, effortlessly shifting between crushing heaviness and more atmospheric, introspective moments. "The End of the Line" is a prime example of this, with its haunting piano intro and Tuthill's plaintive vocals giving way to a crushing chorus that hits like a sledgehammer.

Summary by Chetan Malik

6 XII 18 is a bold, ambitious album that showcases Despite the Black's growth as musicians and songwriters. It's a must-listen for any fan of heavy music, and a testament to the enduring power of the genre.