When discussing the history of thrash metal, the contributions of legendary Los Angeles thrash band Dark Angel cannot be overlooked. The band’s second album, 1986’s Darkness Descends, is widely considered to be one of the seminal recordings of the genre. In fact, Revolver magazine placed the album on its “14 Thrash Albums You Need to Own” list.

The quality of the album owes more than a little to the fact that it was the first to feature powerhouse drummer Gene Hoglan who contributed heavily to the writing process. Hogan would go on to be a key member in both Death and Testament.

Dark Angel is currently riding high as elder statesmen of the thrash revival movement. They reunited for the second time in 2013 and have been touring sporadically ever since. Hogan, who continues to split time between Testament and Dark Angel, has stated that the band is working on new material for what would be their first album since 1991. When and if that ever materializes, you can bet you’ll be hearing more about it right here.

Meanwhile, crank up the title track of Darkness Descends and mosh like it’s ’86!

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