Something Deep Inside: “Darkness Before the Dawn” by Caleb Hyles

Caleb Hyles, who we had the pleasure of interviewing last year, has partnered with the legendary Lacey Sturm on his latest single “Darkness Before the Dawn,” an anthemic plea for strength.

Reminiscent of Skillet, Red, Breaking Benjamin, and Starset, this track is a symphonic blast that sees Caleb delving into some of the grit his voice carries while exploring the weariness of fighting darkness. Wrapped in that theme is the earnest plea to not be abandoned in that battle. There is cautious optimism despite the degradation of his inner strength.

For fans of Caleb’s In One Breath, this track is sonically nothing like that album. There’s an angst and desperation that is palpable in his voice, and the instrumentation mirrors that with a soaring orchestra behind the crisp and driving guitars.

Having Lacey on this track is a genius pairing. Caleb, who already has a powerful and dynamic voice, is complemented by Lacey’s engaging vulnerability. Her verse drives home the balance between optimism and realism: “My broken heart is weary, and my broken words confess, and my broken spirit will conquer every sin.”

The final chorus shifts some of the lyrics to show that, while exhausted and struggling to carry on, the fight is not over.

“Darkness Before the Dawn” is a beautifully moving piece of music that defiantly resists the urge to give up and courageously pushes forward. It will surely connect with many who, perhaps, have been longing to hear an encouraging and defiant anthem of resistance to weariness.

“Darkness Before the Dawn” is available on Spotify and Apple Music.