Exploring Darkness and Depth: A Review of Dark Miles’ 10 Miles Into the Dark

With fall here, I have decided to review one of my favorite new albums from this year for you because it perfectly fits the fall mood. Released on April 25, 2024, 10 Miles Into the Dark is the first solo album from Portuguese musician Pete Miles and is a meticulously crafted piece from start to finish. No stranger to the music scene, having fronted the band MOSH previously, Pete has crafted a fantastic album with a constant theme of 80s new wave influences; it’s got synths, guitars, and beautifully crafted lyrics, making for one solid effort. This 10-track album blends heavy, melodic undertones with a shadowy ambiance that makes it strangely cathartic.

As the album title suggests, 10 Miles Into the Dark isn’t just a collection of songs but a thematic journey. The “10 Miles” could be interpreted as the stages of emotional descent, exploring themes of isolation, personal struggle, and the human experience when faced with despair and uncertainty. The “dark” isn’t literal darkness but a metaphor for the unknown, the fears and doubts we often hide from.

The concept of a gradual descent is prevalent throughout the album, with each song building upon the last, moving deeper into a dense, gloomy atmosphere. The tracks serve as individual chapters in this narrative, guiding you into the album's complex emotional soundscape.

Let’s get into the track listing, shall we?

10 Miles …

It is a hauntingly beautiful opening song that starts softly and then continues to build, setting the tone for the album.

Your Heart is an Empty Street

This song is the first single released from the album. It’s upbeat, with a new wave edge, and full of soul and depth. We also reviewed it here, so read more about it via the link.

When the Lights Go Out

It is one of the most influential and poignant songs to come out of the industry in a long time. It resonates with lyrics that speak of hope, love, and unity. We need freedom for all. Yes, yes, we do. Pete’s vocals are full of emotion and conviction. This song will evoke some feelings, so have the tissues handy. Because of the message and lyrical content, I feel this song will be a very important song in the future. I could even see Pete re-recording this song with the legendary Aaron Lewis of Staind. It's that good.

Running in Circles

This is a low-key track with beautiful synths and soft vocals. It’s very mellow and soothing.

Don’t Let Me Fall Apart

This song departs from the vibe of the rest of the album. It starts with a country twang on the guitar and beautiful vocals.

Nothing Left to Feel

This song starts with a pulsing synth beat and evolves into a song full of 80s nostalgia. The synths remind me of Depeche Mode.

Favorite lyrics from ‘Nothing Left to Feel’:

“Save me from this poisoned room – just take me anywhere but here.”

The Waiting

This song has a Smiths meets Echo and the Bunnymen vibe. Great track.

One Last Goodbye

This song starts with the sound of rain coming down and then the guitar – and it hits you. All at once. Pete’s voice has tinges of Andrew Eldritch from The Sisters of Mercy on this track, which is terrific.

Dear Enemy

This is a solid rock song. Quite enjoyable.

…Into the Dark

‘Into the Dark’ is the perfect exit for a well-crafted album. It’s plain hypnotic.

10 Miles Into the Dark is a stunning debut that establishes Dark Miles as a band to watch. The album’s ability to balance beauty and brutality, light and darkness, makes it a compelling listen from start to finish. Be sure to check it out NOW! I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do.

To learn more about Dark Miles:

Bandcamp:

musicdarkmiles.bandcamp.com

10 track album

Distrokid:

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4XvSRfdTywsHsvqbCHbOgQ?si=A_NaSa0gS0uCBTmX0xHG2A

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/darkmilesband

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/darkmilesband

X:

https://x.com/darkmilesband

YouTube:

www.youtube.com

Dark Miles the solo project of Pedro Lima (a.k.a. Pete Miles), lead singer of the extinct band from Portugal (MOSH). MOSH were a rock band that existed between 2004/2010. MOSH played at big festivals, and as a support act for renowned bands, like Marilyn Manson, Ill Niño, Soulfly. Their video had frequent airplay on MTV Portugal and nominated for Best Newcomer Act by MTV in 2007. They were also invited by the streetwear brand "Volcom" to play at the brand's world event in Biarritz. Pete went into an artistic hiatus that ended with the arrival of the pandemic, which led to an album focused on his influences beyond the heavier spectrum of rock, the 80s and 90s alternative rock. Influences from Depeche Mode, David Bowie, Peter Murphy, The Sound, Psychedelic Furs and Peter Gabriel, to Mad Season, Stone Temple Pilots, Chris Cornell, Mother Love Bone, Temple of the Dog, Mark Lanegan, etc, Pete Miles tries with this album to pay homage to these two brilliant decades of international music.

*Cover photo via Facebook

Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com.