Dark Matter (Pearl Jam album)

Pearl Jam began working on their twelfth studio album in 2021, but the sessions were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, the band regrouped with producer Andrew Watt, who had previously worked with Eddie Vedder on his solo album Earthling (2022). The recording took place at Shangri-La studio in Malibu, California, over a period of about three weeks in late 2023. The band aimed for a more spontaneous and collaborative approach, with many songs written and recorded live in the studio.¹

The album's sound is characterized by a return to the band's earlier, more guitar-driven rock, with influences from punk and grunge. Lyrically, the songs explore themes of mortality, social unrest, and personal reflection, with Vedder's vocals often conveying a sense of urgency. The title track "Dark Matter" was released as the lead single, and its music video, directed by Josh Graham, features abstract imagery. Critics noted the album's cohesive energy and the band's renewed vigor.²

Dark Matter debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 with 107,000 equivalent album units, marking Pearl Jam's fifth number-one album in the United States. It also topped charts in several other countries, including Australia, Canada, and Germany. The album's success was bolstered by a limited-edition vinyl release and a global tour supporting the album. The single "Dark Matter" reached number one on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Airplay chart.

Upon release, Dark Matter received generally positive reviews from music critics. On Metacritic, it holds a score of 78 out of 100, indicating "generally favorable reviews." Critics praised the band's tight performances and the production by Andrew Watt, though some noted that the album does not break new ground. Publications such as Rolling Stone and Pitchfork highlighted the album's raw energy and strong songwriting.³

One notable aspect is that the album was recorded in just three weeks, a departure from the band's previous longer recording processes. The cover art was created by artist Alex Grey, known for his psychedelic and spiritual artwork, and features a cosmic theme. Additionally, the album includes a hidden track, "Something Special," which appears after a period of silence on the final track. The band also released a series of behind-the-scenes videos documenting the recording sessions, which were well-received by fans.⁴

Monkeywrench Records

Pearl Jam's own record label, founded in 2001.

Republic Records

A major record label that co-released the album.

Shangri-La

A recording studio in Malibu, California, owned by producer Rick Rubin.

Billboard 200

The main album chart in the United States.