The Dark Emerges with Explosive Debut Single ‘Chemicals’ Under Arising Empire
Los Angeles-based band The Dark has officially signed with Arising Empire and dropped their debut single, "Chemicals," influenced by 90s bands like Nine Inch Nails and White Zombie.
NEW RELEASESNEWS
9/19/20241 min read
Los Angeles-based band The Dark has officially joined the roster of Arising Empire, marking their entrance into the heavy music scene with the release of their debut single, "Chemicals." Available worldwide, this track ushers in a bold new chapter for both the band and the independent label known for nurturing rising stars in the metalcore genre.
Fronted by Craig Johns Jr., with Alan Ashby of Of Mice & Men on guitar, Derek Vautrinot on drums, and Nick Goins on bass, The Dark is already creating significant buzz. Their debut single, "Chemicals," released under the banner of Arising Empire—a label with a history of championing bands like thrown and previously While She Sleeps—presents a fresh and intense take on heavy music.
"Chemicals" delivers a powerful apocalyptic vision through the eyes of two lovers. As the world collapses around them, their focus remains solely on each other, allowing the devastation to unfold unnoticed. The track draws inspiration from 90s icons such as Nine Inch Nails, White Zombie, Fudge Tunnel, and Filter, making it a fitting introduction to The Dark’s musical identity.
Craig Johns Jr. shares a personal connection to the song, stating, "It’s something I’m less than proud of, but this story of two lovers focusing on each other while the world falls apart… This comes from a very real place I’ve found myself in in the past. There have been times where I’ve wrapped myself in things like lust and drugs, rather than facing the harsh reality of living in poverty in a major city like Los Angeles. Sometimes it’s easier to obsess over what’s in front of you, an easy escape, whether it’s a partner or a substance, and end up willfully blind to the bigger picture. This band is our love letter to the dark side of our human nature."
With "Chemicals," The Dark makes a striking debut, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into their world and setting the stage for their future endeavors under the Arising Empire banner.
Listen below: