Record Label: Abacus Recordings
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After a 6-year hiatus from recording new material, Ignite has returned to release “Our Darkest Days.” This is their first full-length album recorded under the Abacus label. Ignite has also recruited producer Cameron Webb who has worked with such acts as Motorhead and Social Distortion to oversee the entire project.

This release is about as close to perfection as one can get. Vocalist Zoli Teglas has a voice that is distinct and fresh. Quite literally, there is no one out that sounds like Teglas. First time listeners may be apt to suggest that Teglas sounds too metal and that his vocals lack the raw energy found in most punk. To be completely honest, I held this very opinion and my own short-sightedness nearly caused me to miss arguably the best album of 2006. It’s Teglas’ sound that truly sets Ignite apart from the pack. They just sound different and that is a damn fine thing to witness.

Although Teglas’ vocals are Ignite’s most dominating feature and will ultimately decide how you receive this band, their musicianship should not be overlooked. Ignite plays their genre better than anyone else out there today. Yeah I said it! These guys are as tight as my acid-washed jeans circa 1982.

The album opens with a one-minute blitz that seamlessly transcends into “Bleeding”, an aggressive full frontal assault on the Bush administration’s blatant pillaging of the 9/11 tragedy. Two of the best tracks come back-to-back in the four and five position. Let it Burn’ has a strong sing-along chorus that boasts impressive backing by the band while relaying a message on alcohol abuse. Poverty For All’ will have you pumping your fists in the air and screaming along.

“Our Darkest Days” continues to ravage the listener until the very end. Ignite even manages to put their personal touch on U2’s classic; Sunday Bloody Sunday’ and it comes off really well. An emotionally charged Teglas closes out the album with an acoustic number that finally allows the listener time to breathe. Unfortunately the bonus/hidden track does not at all fit the profile of the album and is irrelevant at best.

It is clear that Ignite knows their target audience and delivers on all fronts. “Our Darkest Days” is destined to become a classic hardcore album. I would suggest that Ignite newcomers give Teglas’ vocals an honest run. They are different, that is a certainty, but I for one revel in it’s individuality. Isn’t that what punk is all about anyway? You can check out the entire album on the bands MySpace page.

Bottom Line: If you are a fan of Ignite or melodic hardcore, this album needs to be in your collection. Hell, if you’re a fan of great music, this album needs to be in your collection.
Notable Tracks: Bleeding, Let It Burn, Poverty For All, Slowdown, Are You Listening
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