The album left a lot unsaid. It feels like there was much more potential lyrically and instrumentally that didn’t quite make it into the album.
Stitched Up Heart has been on the scene since 2010, initially going with a unique style that shaped their 2012 release of their self-released debut EP, “Escape The Nightmare” Two years later followed the release of Skeleton Key with a new direction and sound. Their single “Finally Free” not only unveiled their new lineup Merrit Goodwin on Guitars, Randy Mathias on bass, and James Decker on Drums but also led them into the spotlight in early 2016 gaining a more cohesive sound and audience. Their album Never Alone debuted in the top ten of Billboard Heatseekers and Hard Rock Charts. Changing line ups and sounds throughout the years their current line up and direction gives off a The Pretty Reckless Vibe crossed with a similar sound to In This Moment.
The overall theme for Darkness is an introspective look into dealing with the pain of heartbreak, stepping out of darkness into the light about low points in life. With regard to the lyrics, I found myself asking for more depth. I feel so much went unsaid for the sake of maybe playing it safe? Sounds like some of the lyrical content was possibly cherry-picked or simplified from the original content. “Straight Jacket” was the first track to really spark attention but “Dirty Secrets” and “Bones” were the only tracks to really peak lyrically. “Bones” speaks volumes. “All you want is skin and no bones.” speaks to the craving of a deeper connection knowing the individual you’re seeking a deeper connection with does not desire that with you. The track eloquently dives into the process of the emotion of a one-sided relationship and how that can unfold in self-sabotaging behavior you’re so willing to rip your heart out of your own chest for this person knowing rejection of your efforts is inevitable with not so much as a thank you in the end.
The album as a whole left a lot of potential on the table, this album ventures into a heavier more modern sound too safely, the sound and lyrics prove they can make what sells but without truly standing out. It feels like certain songs were picked to show growth in certain areas but fell flat “Bones” was spot on but “Crooked Halo” appeared as if it was placed on the album to show they can do more than one “Bones” type of track. The album had a lot to say but didn’t have the words to say it.
