I like the quartz :-)

I like the quartz too. Yoi can also look at super white quartzite, it's really nice..

Removing the black appliances will really help the space lighten up. If you do not have under cabinet lighting, get some. It was the best thing I did and it is surprising how much it adds to making a kitchen look better. I would get the lighting and change out the appliances - then look at countertops.

When you change out appliances, consider removing the over the counter microwave and putting up a pretty stainless vent hood.

I would rethink the wall color. Monitors do not show true color. On mine, the walls look cool gray - also sucking light from the space. Warm wood tones and cool grays don't do anything for each other. Warm tones are returning. Consider a green / gray if you really want gray, or a very light silvery gray. Iwould go with a cream, but it looks like you really like grays.

Here is a kitchen with darker cabinets and I think it has the granite you are considering. The light backsplash helps this kitchen along with the large window and lighter wall color:

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/finally-finished-with-kitchen-updating-dsvw-vd~4512247

Here is my older kitchen with quartz. I went with a light quartz. There is some warm tones in it though in some light it might not look like it:

https://www.houzz.com/photos/my-pics-work-in-progress-phvw-vp~110720042

I like the Astoria. Or a quartz with more pattern. White quartz seems like a lot of contrast and is very modern for your space.
If you want to brighten up the room, I think the best place to start is the paint color. It's a really pretty shade but not light enough for the dark cabinets. Can you paint the kitchen either a few shades lighter on the same strip, or the same color lightened by 30%.

I would choose a warm, light counter top (I don't like either option with your cabinets), then pick a new, light paint color that goes with the new counter (after it is installed) and then choose a light back splash.

I am in the minority who prefer the granite as well. It looks warm and inviting with your cabinets.

Thanks all! It's hard to change our paint color. We have an open floor plan. if we changed our paint we would have to change the paint in the eat in kitchen and living room as well. I think a light colored backsplash might fix the problem.

I really don't think you'd need to change everything. Can you post a picture? If you do something a bit lighter that still coordinates you should be able to do just 2-3 walls lighter.

Pick your counter material before you select the color for the island. Take a drawer with you when you shop for the new counter material. Consider the amount of natural light you get and the amount of light thrown by your kitchen fixtures.
And do consider putting a runner rug and a matching area rug on your kitchen floor to relieve the brown overload. A rug will also be comfortable underfoot when you are working there. I have had rugs in my kitchen for many years. Unless you tend to spill things often, a quick vacuuming will keep the rugs looking good.