The band have been around since 1995 and hails from Heidelberg, Germany. Over the years, the band has faced numerous issues, including a postponed debut full-length which was recorded in 2003 and released nine years later. However, since blood is thicker than water and death metal is a survivor, Into Darkness still stands strong in the European underground. They also got better at what they do.
The album opens with a great intro, right before all hell breaks loose in 'Left Behind'. From then on, the music rages on in blind fury and sheer speed. Bands like Death, Obituary, Sinister and Immolation often come to mind. Yet, this isn't a mere copy of those bands but simply a highly versatile and massive album. Songs like 'Manifesto' and 'Human Benediction' could be classic, certainly the latter.
This is also one of those albums a trained metalhead can easily get into. It's impressive how familiar and recognizable these riffs sound and how easy they got stuck in your head. Even the fierce, blackened passages are mesmerizing and simply perfect for a decent headbanging session. Furthermore, there is a certain level of complexity, not too much but exactly right to remain interesting, something which isn't always easy.
So, death metal fans all around, get ready to plunge into the thick, dark cesspool of filthy thrash riffs, skull hammering drums and growling voices that these Germans have prepared. I promise you, you won't be disappointed. I am quite positive that these guys can come up with a decent live performance as well, so I guess it's time that they finally get the success they deserve.
Serge