The Dark are an L.A. band formed by Craig Johns Jr. and Alan Ashby (Of Mice And Men). Johns Jr. gives us the lowdown on the band, their newly released self-titled debut EP and other topics.
Chad Bowar: Give us a brief history of the Dark.
Craig Johns Jr.: The Dark started about two years ago. Alan approached me about writing some electronic/industrial style music and it slowly turned into more of a metal band over time and landed us here.
Describe the songwriting process for your self-titled EP.
It always starts with a demo that either Alan or I write. I break the demo down into little pieces and get really surgical with every little sound, note, texture, etc. It’s not until the instrumental is almost completely finished and polished that I start to write vocals. I like to create the universe of the song first and then put on my headphones and play with melody and lyrics.
What will be your strongest memory of the recording of the album?
Taking a bit of a leap structure and production-wise with “Circles” and I remember the first time I sent my revision to Alan and he called back instantly just wildly excited. Made me feel really good.
What was the biggest challenge in its creation?
Mixing it myself was not something I wanted to do. At the time I thought we should let someone else have their ears on it but it was ultimately a necessary hurdle to overcome. I love the way it sounds.
How would you characterize its style/sound?
We just did whatever we wanted. It’s a blend of nostalgic metal and industrial, with a lot of what I’d consider more futuristic electronic production. I jokingly call it “late night metal.”
What lyrical topics do you cover?
Mostly my reflection on the state of things from the point of view of a struggling person in a new city. It varies song to song but it all comes from a real place.
How did you come to sign with Arising Empire?
We were adamant about working with someone who truly understood our vision and respected our creative direction. They’ve honestly been nothing but supportive, we’re very happy.
What are your goals and expectations for the album?
This EP, to me, is a sort of ‘Start Here.’ It’s an approachable collection of some of our favorite songs from the past couple years, and I think it’ll make a great jump-off point to future albums as we release them. No goals or expectations in particular, just making every effort I can to become the biggest rock band in the world one song at a time.
Do you have plans to record a full-length?
Way ahead of you.
You filmed several videos for the EP. Which was your favorite shoot?
“Chemicals” for sure. The entire process was an absolute blast and I still feel it represents us the best.
What has been your most memorable The Dark live show?
I think House of Blues Anaheim? Our first sold out show and the crowd was amazing. It was also the first time I really felt like I came into my own as a frontman. Just all around rad.
What are your upcoming show/tour plans?
We’re very excited to be playing all three weekends of Vans Warped Tour this year! Otherwise, you’ll have to wait and see!
What are some of your non-musical interests and hobbies?
I’m rather obsessed with strength training and UFO documentaries.
What’s the best thing you binge watched recently?
The A52 channel on YouTube. I can’t stop.
What’s currently in your heavy musical rotation?
A lot of heavy electronic stuff. Toutant, Limbo Slice, Pitchy.
Anything else you’d like to mention or promote?
Follow along on our socials (@thedark.fm), we’re constantly posting new content and music. Otherwise feel free to follow along as I write the new record and produce us and other bands (@craigjohnsjr). Thanks everyone!
(interview published February 21, 2025)
Watch The Dark – “Chemicals” Video
