The album transports listeners straight back to the golden age of Dark-Wave, evoking the feeling of waking up in the 1980s to the sound of the British bands that once defined the genre.

The dark, inspired guitar work instantly stirs memories, while the energetic drumming injects a powerful momentum. At times, the songs echo a compelling blend of The Skeletal Family and Killing Joke. The concise, hard-hitting studio tracks are followed by live recordings that, in my opinion, surpass the originals in raw energy and impact.

Black Rain emerges here as a devoted and talented disciple of the Dark-Wave and Post-Punk tradition. This is pure, undiluted nostalgia—served in a way that’s both authentic and satisfying. (Rating:8).

Listen to “Shadows Cry – Live @ The Bunker”:

About Black Rain

Black Rain is a post-punk band from Sunderland, England, made up of Josh Cowey (vocals, guitar), Mick Christon (drums), and Scott Hays (bass). The band’s self-titled debut album was released on July 14, 2025, combining five studio tracks – “Inside”, “Save Me”, “Shotgun”, “Satanists”, and “Fear” – with four tracks recorded live at The Bunker: “Shadows Cry”, “Broken Words”, “I Suffer Alone”, and “Dust Tube”.

Inferno Sound Diaries

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.

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