Album Review: Bewitcher

Portland's Bewitcher are back with their demonic speed in Baphomet's name unleashing more unholy hymns with their latest creation Spell Shock.

Thundering through the Gates of Hell is the opener 'Starfire Maelstrom' which is dominated by basslines and drum patterns with a nice NWOBHM section midway through, the speed then intensifies with Motorhead vibes for 'Lavish Desecration' which then builds to the album title track 'Spell Shock.'

'Out Against The Law' provides the album with another rough-riding anthem whereas 'Dystoptic Demonolatry' contains some real technicality with razor-laced vocals. There is real natural flow throughout Spell Shock which continues through 'Seasons Of Foul Harvest.'

Moving to 'We Die In Dust' sees a slower tempo before stepping on the accelerator once more for 'The Harem Conspiracy' which easily has some of the best riffs of the album but then comes a huge dynamic shift in tones with the instrumental 'Pagan Shadows.'

'Ride Of The Box' really serves as one final chance for the band to showcase this latest infernal offering with some real classic grooves and fist-pumping chorus as the final track is the single edit of the thunderous opener 'Starfire Maelstrom.'

Bassist Magus says:

“We kept coming back to classic heavy metal records for inspiration. What we got was our take on classic 80’s metal records using the tools we have today.”

The band also credits engineer and mixer Chris Dugan, best known for his
work with Green Day (Yes, Green Day, but listen to those guitars!), for
nailing Spell Shock’s energized rawness.

Von Bewitcher adds:

“We’ve always tried to be an old school band, without being or sounding like a retro or trad metal band."

Overall, this album is supercharged with razor-sharp, unforgettable heavy metal all thrown into a cauldron of nostalgia.

Rating: 7/10
Released By: Century Media Records
Release Date: September 27th 2024
FFO: Devastator, Hellripper, Skeletonwitch

Track List

1. Starfire Maelstrom
2. Lavish Desecration
3. Spell Shock
4. Out Against The Law
5. Dystopic Demonolatry
6. Seasons Of Foul Harvest
7. We Die In Dust
8. The Harem Conspiracy
9. Pagan Shadows
10. Ride Of The Iron Fox