Mono Inc. – Darkness (Digital/CD/Vinyl Album – NoCut SPV)
“Darkness” is the thirteenth album by the German phenomenon Mono Inc. Led by the charismatic singer Martin Engler, the band remains a dominant force, especially in their home country.
The title “Darkness” presents an intriguing contrast to its central theme: the search for light when chaos reigns deep within. This concept resonates perfectly with Mono Inc.’s music. More than ever, they deliver a fascinating blend of Metal, Gothic, and Pop. The guitars carry a metal edge, while the choruses rise into soaring, uplifting pop. All of this is woven together with majestic orchestral arrangements, occasionally broken up by delicate piano passages. At times, the sound feels almost Cinematic. What truly stands out is the magnetism of Engler’s voice. Most of the tracks are sung in English, though he occasionally returns to his native German.
“Darkness” is an album that, paradoxically, leaves the listener with a sense of joy. It holds a hidden, almost magical power that deeply touches those who hear it. (Rating:8½).
Listen to “Sea Of Love”:
Read the news on ‘Darkness’.
About Mono Inc.
Formed in Hamburg, Germany, in 2000, Mono Inc. originated with Miky Mono (vocals/bass), Carl Fornia (guitar) and Martin Engler (drums); Manuel Antoni joined on bass in 2003. In 2007 Engler moved to lead vocals and Katha Mia took over drums, consolidating the core lineup that carried the band through the 2010s.
Early work included a self-released debut, “Head Under Water”, in 2003, a signing to NoCut in 2004, and a move to SPV / Rookies & Kings in 2012 before returning with later charting albums on NoCut. The group’s studio arc reached wider mainstream attention with “The Book of Fire” (2020) and “Ravenblack” (2023), both landing at number one in the German charts.
The current lineup consists of Martin Engler (vocals), Carl Fornia (guitar), Katha Mia (drums) and Ilja John Lappin (bass). “Darkness”, released 15 August 2025 via NoCut Music, gave the band its third consecutive German number-one album. Read our 2017 interview ‘Click Interview’ with Mono Inc.: ‘Variety Is Everything!’
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I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
