Finally, the new HIM album “Dark Light” is here! Although it doesn’t surpass many HIM albums in my opinion, “Dark Light” is still a good buy. The first thing I noticed was that the CD cover was totally different from any other HIM albums because Ville’s not on the cover or just the heart-a-gram. Secondly, the way the music fits the artwork is so refreshing every time I listen to the album I just become refreshed. I just imagine a lone tower in the middle of the ocean and the stories that go in it. That seems to be the objective of the album. The third thing I noticed while listening was the heavy breakdowns that the album had, it reminded me of “Greatest Love Songs: Vol: 666.”

The first track “Vampire Heart” starts off like the Friday the 13th movie theme song, but turns into the typically sounding HIM songs. The songs on this album remind me of a mix between “Greatest Love Songs: Vol: 666”and “Deep Shadows, Brilliant Highlights.” The reason being that the heaviness of the first album was there and also the emotion from the third album, both mentioned, are all there. The two singles, “Rip Out The Wings Of A Butterfly” and “Behind The Crimson Door” are both great songs, heavy and poppy, with just enough of both ingredients to fill anyone’s needs. The only track I have a problem with is the title track, “Dark Light.” I just don’t like it, way too poppy for my taste. Besides that, the album is an all around great purchase. My two favorite songs on the album are “The Face Of God,” and “In The Nightside Of Eden.” Great vocals and a kind of a different approach for the band… sounds much like their earlier material such as “The Heartless” or “The Reaper.”

The band is really tight; more keyboards than usual so that was a delight. The only problem I have which is a consistent one with HIM is the lack of solos. Linde has a great style of playing but doesn’t show it off too often. The only solo on the album is on “Under The Rose” which leaves you longing for more. I say buy this album as it’s a good addition to any collection.