SIGN OF EVIL – Psychodelic Darkness

RELEASE YEAR: 2026
BAND URL: https://edgedcircleproductions.bandcamp.com/album/psychodelic-darkness

What we have here is a most interesting musical proposition. Hailing from Chile and nursed in oppressive gloom by mastermind (and multi-instrumentalist) Witchfucker and drummer Thoth, this short and concise slab of hellish black metal infused with speed metal influences titled Psychodelic Darkness is nothing short of a perverted musical feast for the ears.  

If it had been labeled or described as “eerily psychedelic black metal with a sick twist” then that would have worked quite well too. The point is that although Sign of Evil utilizes and incorporates many known and traditional elements from the extreme metal underground of the 80s, there is a unique flavor and original flair to Psychodelic Darkness that makes it stand out and sport a musical identity of its own. Charismatic is one way of putting it; wholly evil and unsettling would be another. The slightly murky sound coupled with the cavernous feel of the compositions makes for an excellent listening experience in which aggressive and dark vocals, fierce and warped riffs, a raw yet nicely robust production that leaves plenty of room for every instrument, and the sickest guitar tone heard in ages all come together in a splendid manner. The use of synthesizer/keyboards adds a demented, maniacal aura to the proceedings and conjures up visions of nightmares.

This wicked thing is so filthy and sinister in some respects that I basically feel inclined to take a shower after having listened to it given that it feels so unearthly and vile somehow, but really, the point I am trying to make is that this is quite original stuff with its own deranged and evil spirit to it that certainly leaves an impact – and a rather nasty and claustrophobic one at that. There are plenty of strong and memorable tracks on the disc, but the ones that perfectly sum up what Sign of Evil is all about include the title track and the swirling, strangely hypnotic “Sulfur Smell.” Highly creative stuff that is full of interesting textures. Yours truly loves this awesome gem!