7/10

Throughout the 90s and 00s, Pearl Jam cemented themselves as one of the more impactful rock acts of their era. With their raw and driven aesthetics perfectly heightened with singer Eddie Vedder's instantly recognisable vocals, they found their place at the forefront of the grunge-laden landscape of the time, earning them legions of fans in the process. And while their output hasn't been as regular as it once was, they are still looking to progress their innovative sound as they return with their twelfth studio album 'Dark Matter', a record that still packs a mighty punch.

Usually when bands have been around as long as Pearl Jam have, you can usually expect a drop in the enthusiasm they bring to their newest material. But these guys are sounding just as fresh and impactful as they always have. With each track packed with this thunderous rock energy and blinding pace at every turn, 'Dark Matter' shows that not only are they still brimming with exciting ideas, they also have the stamina to keep up with their former selves and unleash a fun and enjoyable listen here.

It is always good to see that the energy they have always brought to their work remains extremely strong on 'Dark Matter'. Keeping the fire alive at their age is never an easy task, but they have come out swinging here, continuing their infectious presence on the scene once again.