Review Summary: Feelgood hard rock with a noticeably more ominous tinge
As suggested by the title and cover image, Dark Sky Sanctuary sees Freeways’s feelgood hard rock come with a foreboding overcast. The band hits noticeably harder than before as “Forever Protected” kicks things off with a flailing riff set across a spry charging tempo. It’s not a dramatically huge difference but considering this album was what got the band accepted onto the Metal Archives, perhaps that Motörhead-esque speed on “Give Em The Gears” is indeed furious enough to break the glass ceiling.
Of course, anybody who enjoyed the road trip-ready gumption that made 2020’s True Bearings such a fun listen will be safe here. The structures remain focused on catchy hooks with the vocals showing off a simple but engaging singalong range while the hefty rhythms and bright chugs maintain breezy enthusiasm. “Can’t Deny Destiny” channels some Blue Oyster Cult vibes with its “Burnin’ For You” almost-reggae shuffle, the title track and the closing “Cracked Shadow” dig into that Thin Lizzy appeal, and “Traveling Heart” brings an almost otherworldly wistfulness ala Tanith or Flight.
While Freeways’s second album doesn’t change the style too drastically, it’s great to see the band letting more aspects of their personality to shine through. Dark Sky Sanctuary isn’t quite as instantly infectious as the best of True Bearings, but putting more emphasis on driving speeds helps the lighthearted presentation from feeling too played out. I have yet to get this album in while heading out to the highway, but I can imagine it being just as satisfying.
