Tag: Bellhead

My Favorite 30 Darkscene Albums of 2025

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I have been admittedly awful at putting out new reviews the last few months. I just haven’t been able to muster the spoons to share the level of excitement I hold myself to when writing music reviews. In 2026 I am trying to find that energy again. So here are my favorite 30 Albums/EPs in the loosely defined Darkscene Genre for 2025. Was this everything I enjoyed, of course not. Did I forget something important? Probably. However even though I haven’t been putting out regular reviews like normal, it doesn’t mean I haven’t been listening. 2025 in spite of being an absolutely dumpster fire of a year, has produced some incredible musical releases. In no particular order because every album listed SLAPS 🙂

Curse Mackey – Imaginary Enemies

Bootblacks – Paradise

Mari Kattman – Year of the Katt

Jean Marc Lederman – Electronic Slipper Music

Mark E Moon – Pop Noir

Black Rose Burning – The Fear Machine

Corpus Delecti – Liminal

VNV Nation – Construct

Pixel Grip – Percepticide: The Death of Reality

Assemblage 23 – Null

Plague Garden – Under The Sanguine Moon

Sapphiria Vee – The Haunting of Us

ESA (Electronic Substance Abuse) – Sounds for your Happiness

Stoneburner – Post . Industrial . Occult

Caustic – FIEND I/FIEND II

HEALTH – CONFLICT DLC

Panic Priest – Once Wild

AL1CE – As Above, So Below

NITE – NITE

Korine – A Flame In The Dark

Patriarchy – Manual For Dying

Kill Shelter – Slow Burn Sorrow

Blood Dance – Walk the Night

Red Lorry Yellow Lorry – Strange Kind Of Paradise

Bellhead – Threats

The Funeral March – It All Falls Apart

Roger Ebner – EBNR

Grabyourface – Sad Girl Mixtape

Kali Dreamer – Imperfect Dark

WitchHands – Vox Nihili

I hope you give a listen and a share to every album here. They are all amazing and worth your time. These are all real underground artist, so please give this post a share to increase the bandwidth for awesome music in our scene. Remember you found all these bands first, so the more folks you tell about them, the cooler you are 😉 I’ll give a few words and a link about each record 🙂

Curse Mackey – Imaginary Enemies – Luckily I already have a review done of this record. A brand new solo album from Texas front man extraordinaire Curse Mackey (Evol Mothers/Pigface/My Life with The Thrill Kill Kult) and it’s the most vicious offering to date. Curse brings a vocal talent capable of standing in for Peter Murphy and a poetic spirit of William Burroughs splashed against the canvas of early 90s Wax Trax. Following 2022 Immoral Emporium this fresh construction tackles the modern trauma of self-reflection and paranoia composed in the post capitalist world. Dripping with religious pageantry and gothic ideals Curse weaves and electronic tapestry to challenge a world of degrading empathy.

Produced by Curse Mackey + Chase Dobson
Lyrics by Curse Mackey
Performed by Curse Mackey + Chase Dobson
Mixed by Chase Dobson

Curse Mackey “Imaginary Enemies” – Sounds and Shadows

Bootblacks – Paradise – One of my favorite bands of the modern darkscene. I feel like I have been on this journey through style changes, line up changes, one things stays consistent. It’s always something fresh, always something real, and always at the top quality of any genre they dive into. Post Punk, Slick Indie, Italian Dark Disco, I never know where Panther, Barrett, and company will go next. I could not have predicted this. A complex deep cut British synth. Flavors of the criminally underrated OMD album “Crush”. Another gorgeous presence is the muted Saxaphone in a modern sound, something sure to always win my heart. with every track I am staggered by the crisp tone and razor edges. Bootblacks for me conjures images of a smokey underground club with flickering gasoline lights. Paradise is a rise to main stage neon crystal waves of Simon Le Bon.

Bootblacks “Paradise” – Sounds and Shadows

Mari Kattman –Year Of The Katt – I got to see the uber talented producer/singer Mari play live this year. This album is one badass affirmation of being a positive wicked warrior in a world that keeps falling apart. Whenever I needed a little energy to keep my head up this was an album I turned to. The production levels are exquisite, and Mari’s smokey silk voice is captivating and dangerous. Favorite Track: Little Bullet Girl wicked Shirley Manson energy

Year Of The Katt | Mari Kattman

Jean-Marc Lederman – Electronic Slipper Music – Jean-Marc is one of the most creative conceptual composers of the modern era. As well as a legend in the scene. His albums often feature guest vocalist but for this record he took on the duty himself to wonderful effect. A whispered tongue and cheek spoken word beat poetry. The music weaves the electronic chaos like jazz. The humor, the muted horns, the breaking of the 4th wall. In a world of regurgitated uninspired ideas, Jean-Marc is an artist in a world of products. Favorite Track: I Fell In Love With A Russian Spy

Lyrics by Jacques Duvall (Lio, Sparks, The Runaways, etc…).
Lyrics by Emileigh Rohn (Chiasm, Rohn-Lederman).
Lyrics by Jean-Marc Lederman

All music composed, played, arranged and produced by Jean-Marc Lederman
All vocals by Jean-Marc Lederman. Sorry about that 😉

Electronic Slipper Music | Jean-Marc Lederman

Mark E Moon – Pop Noir – Total 10 track banger album from the Isle of Man off Cold Transmission. This record is such an evolution of the modern goth ideal. It’s furious, it’s dark, it incorporates the soul of the past with the precision and technology of the future. Mark has a generational baritone voice. I can’t help but be reminded of Ultravox Vienna for creating something primal and dark. I’m a huge fan of Mark E Moon, but this record hits different. A transcendent beauty that the larger world scene needs to take notice of. Favorite Track: Ten Thousand Years

Pop Noir | Mark E Moon

Black Rose Burning – The Fear Machine – One of the most underrated bands in the scene from NYC George and Black Rose Burning with a new record of fantastical beauty and intelligent stories. George Grants voice and playing style is unique and captivating. The tone transports you to a blend of science fiction and ancient civilizations. BRB is really raising the standard of quality as well as the level of conversation in modern goth. Favorite Track: Into the Black

George Grant – Vocals, Bass, Synth and Guitars
Luis Infantas – Drums, Percussion and Synth Triggering
Produced, Mixed and Mastered by George Grant @ Putnam Valley Recording Company and The Wolf’s Den – Manhattan
Cover Artwork: Antonella Di Mattei / Eshmoon DM

The Fear Machine | Black Rose Burning

Corpus Delicti –Liminal – Goth legends from Nice France with this blistering Raw Power gothic offering with a cold wilderness energy. Alien sounds, hurky jerky rhythms, surround sinister snarling vocals. Really nice trad goth guitar work. Everything on this record works in perfect harmony. The attention paid to dynamics really take you on a journey. Favorite Track: Chaos

Sébastien Pietrapiana (vocals), Franck Amendola (guitar), Christophe Baudrion (Bass), Fabrice Gouré (Drums)

Additional Musicians : Laurent Tamagno (drums on « Crash » and « Chaos »), Frédéric Allavena (Piano and backing vocals on « Under His Eye »), Max Abrieu (trombone on « Under His Eye »)

All music and lyrics by Corpus Delicti
Drums recorded at Mounta Cala Studio, St Cézaire, FR by Valery Lacroix.
All others instruments recorded at FATS Studio, Nice, FR by Franck Amendola.
Produced by Franck Amendola and Corpus Delicti
Mastered at The Exchange, London, UK

Artwork by Elliot Pietrapiana and Sébastien Pietrapiana
Drawing : Génération X, 2024 by Jean-Luc Verna
Photo : Christian Perez
Private collection
Courtesy of the artist and Ceysson & Bénétière
©ADAGP, Paris, 2025

Liminal | Corpus Delicti

VNV Nation – Construct – Ronan Harris was one of my first introductions into futurepop. A distinct powerful voice with a gift for tapping into and conveying emotional snapshots that are so relatable. The themes are often on self-discovery and Construct seems to lean into that harder than ever. The music is bouncy and upbeat for the most part but contains such a depth. Favorite Track: Nothing More , this one ripped my guts out and left them steaming in beauty on the floor.

Music and lyrics by Ronan Harris
Produced by Ronan Harris
Recorded at Anachron Studios, Hamburg, Germany
Mixed by Benjamin Lawrenz and Ronan Harris
Mastered by Chris Gehringer at Sterling Sound
Published by Schubert Music Publishing
Released on Anachron Sounds

Construct | VNV Nation

Pixel Grip –Percepticide: The Death of Reality – No one is writing such a fire hose blast of pure bangers as Chicago’s Pixel Grip. Every track is an instant dance party. Rita Lukea belts out Siouxsie like brash punk beauty. It’s one of those records that makes you feel cooler than you are while you walk down the street listening to it. Absolute masters of sonic transition. Favorite Track: Split

All songs written by Rita Lukea, Jonathon Freund & Tyler Ommen
Produced by: Rita Lukea, Jonathon Freund, Tyler Ommen, & Joojoo Ashworth
Vocal Production & Mixing: Andrew Lappin
Mastering: Ruairi O’Flaherty / Nomograph Mastering

Percepticide: The Death of Reality | Pixel Grip

Assemblage 23 – Null – Another FuturePop lord with a new emotive dancefloor gem. I love the romantic tone Tom Shear infused into this record. The world is a frightening place lately and hearing this hopeful message of love really did my spirit good at some dark moments. Tom has such a rich and earnest voice. It’s hard to put to words its ability to make you feel calm and secure in the moment. This is my feel good record of the year. Favorite Track: Believe , Always open with a banger.

Null | Assemblage 23

Plague Garden – Under The Sanguine Moon – From Colorado comes this Vampire themed death rock record leaning in from a lost time. Sometimes I think modern goth music is afraid to embrace the over-the-top theater of its roots. Plague Garden jumps in head first to the murky pool. Every member of this band is an expert on their instrument from the Carl McCoy school of goth knocks. The songs also have some amazing guest spots from Azy Bats, Dan Milligan, and Brian Gillette. As if I didn’t love the style and sound enough, they also keep true to the political punk ethos of goth. The lyrics all tell a beautiful tale of anguish and horror in English and Spanish. Favorite Track: The Dirty Dead

Under The Sanguine Moon | Plague Garden

Sapphira Vee – Unfolding – I understand this one is riding the line between album and EP, but even with 6 tracks it is undeniable that it shreds. Sapphira is an artist I have gotten to watch the growth of in the last 6 years and she is hitting an unmistakable stride with Distortion productions. The guitar lines are rolling walls of flame which find a perfect mix with her smokey gospel vocals. I love the clever synth instrument choices to add a 90’s Susan Vega world beat vibe. Every track here cooks without a wasted moment. The concept of short stories mixed into songs is brave and inspiring. To Forgive or Not is absolutely heart wrenching. What a raw moment she shared. Favorite Track: I would go with To Forgive or Not but it might be a little too real for my comfort. Instead I’ll pick Evil In Numbers with a guest vocal from Jim Semonik, total banger.

Unfolding | Sapphira Vee

ESA – Sounds for your Happiness – Uk Artist Jamie Blacker does the hardest freaking industrial I can handle. Maybe not the hardest there is, but it is my maximum spice level for enjoyment. Complete vision of concept, intelligent lyrics, and hot wet charisma rising from the floor. Always the right sound to convey the moment. I dare anyone to listen to this record and not feel your body moving. This record is my apocalypse soundtrack and the way things are going I will need it sooner rather than later. Favorite Track: Something For the Horsemen

Mastered by Stephan Sutor

Sounds for your Happiness | ESA

 Stoneburner – Post . Industrial . Occult – Baltimore Cyber Wizard Steven Archer‘s latest offering full of tight turns like a Tron light cycle. “Oh Ken, picking another of your friends?” Guess what, my friends make the sickest music. Every new release of Stoneburner Steve steps further in front of the mic to embrace the frontman inside him. Mark Alan Miller (Out Out) joins in the production to add a funky 90s industrial flavor to the glistening bionic teeth. I kept picturing that day 1992 at Pine Knob when Ministry took the stage and the sod blotted out the sky. Favorite Track: C4 Amour

Post . Industrial . Occult | Stoneburner

 Caustic – FIEND I / FIEND II – Why do we love Madison Wisconsin Industropunk Caustic? The punk rock ethos? The intelligent political vinegar? Is it the fact that Matt loves bad ass beats as much as you do and dedicates his life and time to making sure your fuking bones quake when his bassline drops? Pick an answer. One truth remains, for 1.5 decades now Caustic has been giving you both barrels of fearless phosphorus dragon round industrial music and the Fiend dual albums leave it all on the floor. Fiend I is a Tesla arc of manic blue energy. Both have a wonderful Underworld umami with just as much diversity to the flavors. Fiend II is slushy soul bearing concrete stomps. Both humble, self-aware, and real as a heart attack. I wish all dance music had the courage to be this honest. Favorite Tracks: Ritual Self Destruction and Survive Myself Despite Myself. Fuk these hit hard.

No AI went into the making of this. Don’t be a hack.

FIEND II | Caustic

Caustic – “FIEND I” – Sounds and Shadows

HEALTH – CONFLICT DLC – In 2024 HEALTH had an album on my top records list, and here they are back again. The LA trio is simply changing the game. I rarely see something as debated as rather they fall under the “goth” umbrella. One thing that is decidedly true is they fall under the umbrella of things that consistently slap. It’s jet black ear candy in a latex wrapper. It’ sexy, soulful, and follows a beat of it’s own. I could just set this record on repeat and not get board of it for 4 days. Favorite Track: You Died

CONFLICT DLC | HEALTH

Panic Priest – Once Wild – Chicago shadow crooner Jack Armondo was one of the first artist I discovered in my goth renaissance back in 2018. A dreamy rich baritone voice who fires out wicked guitar licks and fills a stage all on his own. In those years he has evolved and refined leading up to Once Wild. It’s so sleazy and retro in tone and presentation. Like plush purple velvet wrapped around Depeche Mode Violator. I love the even ratio blend of synthpop and glam rock. Jack has a sensual unforgettable voice that makes the hairs on the back of your arm stand up. Every new Panic Priest record makes me say “This is the best Panic Priest album yet” but… “This is the best Panic Priest album yet” Favorite Track: My Lonely Ghost

Produced, Mixed and Recorded by Brian Fox and Jack Armondo at Altered States and The Panic Pad
Additional Production and Recording by Daniel Belasco at The Belasco House Studio (Tracks 3,7)
Mastered by Jeppe Hasseriis at The Constellation

Cover Design and Layout by Eric Adrian Lee
Concept and Front Cover Photo by Jack Armondo
Model: Lindsey Nelmar
Back Cover Photo by David Joseph Gall
Panic Priest “Splatter Logo” by John of Clubdrugs

Once Wild | Panic Priest

AL1CE – So Below – Progressive psychedelic dark rock with blistering laser vocals and true artistry for every instrument on a packed stage. Basically Goth Jefferson Airplane led by the charismatic Tash out front. This album is emotive and deliberate. An emotive rollercoaster behind the curtain. So below hits on the heavier rock driven side of Al1ce. The record features a lot of wicked guitar licks and heavenly vocal blends but otherwise hits a wide variety of styles within the loose dark rock concept. Tash also does an awesome interview podcast called The Unwritten Rules of the Road. Their live show is a must see of the modern scene, never miss a chance when they come through your town. Favorite Track: See Me

All AL1CE songs written by Tash Cox, Scott Landes, Gordon Bash, and Steve Kefalas

So Below | AL1CE

 Nite – NITE – Twin brothers from Dallas Texas with this self-titled release. These lads just have something captivating and special. The harmony of shadowy Duran Duran sounds blended with romantic gothic Cure vocals. if you aren’t on the NITE bandwagon yet, do it now, because in a few years you will need to buy a ticket to a festival to see these shooting stars. Favorite Track: Easy – this has such an awesome 90’s electronic sound that transports me back.

“NITE” Your new favorite goth twins… – Sounds and Shadows

Kyle Mendes – Vocals, Bass, Synths, Programing
Myles Mendes – Vocals, Guitar, Synths, Programing
Phil Helms – Drums, Percussion

NITE | Nite

 Korine – A Flame In The Dark – The gorgeous darkgaze sound of Korine from Philly is criminally underrated. One of those bright warm glow sounds with lyrics so raw and crushing like Pet Shop Boys “Rent”. As they have done more releases they keep everything that makes them great and add layers of depth and maturity. Favorite Track: it’s hard to pick but I’ll say “Screaming in the Night” because the lyrics made me cry.

All songs written, recorded, and produced by Korine
Mixed and mastered collaboratively by Trey Frye and Noah Lemen
Korine font designed by Liz McLean
Insert Photo by Caro Ramirez
Artwork layout and design by Korine
Released by Born Losers Records 2025

A Flame In The Dark | Korine

Patriarchy – Manual For Dying – LA razorpop artist Patriarchy had one of the best cross over records this year. Something that transcends genre by pulling the best parts of so many sounds together. The vocals are haunting and ethereal. The music is a swirling vortex that flows in clean patterns that follow the instinct of the bodies movement. Every song here is a dance floor banger. Favorite Track: Pain Is Power

Manual For Dying | Patriarchy

Kill Shelter – Slow Burn Sorrow – Pete Burn’s is one of the best producers/song writers of the modern goth era. 2019 album “Damage” is a 4th wave classic. With Slow Burn Sorrow Pete stripped everything to the ground a minimalist Swans like swaying delivery of tortured melody. I love when an artist proves they can hit you emotionally using any tool in the box. Using 58 overlayed sounds or 4 simple tracks Kill Shelter has a grasp of how to connect with a human story. Something of a lost art in the singles and over produced beats in the current deluge. Favorite Track: A Gift of Ashes

Slow Burn Sorrow | Kill Shelter

Blood Dance –Walk the Night – Akatoxkatl Martinez in Mexico City has blended trad goth sensibility with protest punk heart, and wicked dance beats to create one of my favorite modern interpretations of what captured my soul in early goth. Produced by goth legend Franck Amendola (Corpus Delicti) who understood how to perfectly blend the emotive rise and falls of Akatoxkatl‘s vocal delivery. This record just drips with soul, it’s a living evolving energy from track 1 – 7. Mexico City has a goth scene that needs a lot more attention and Blood Dance is leading the charge into the future. Favorite Track: Compromise

Produced by Franck Amendola & Blood Dance | Mixed by Franck Amendola at FATS Studio in Nice, France | Mastered by Jerome Schmitt at theairlab.com in London, UK.

Walk the Night – Album | Blood Dance

Red Lorry Yellow Lorry – Strange Kind Of Paradise – I 1st heard English goth legends Red Lorry Yellow Lorry in the 90’s in college with the album “Talk About the Weather”. I was struck by the chaos and dynamics, by Chris Reed’s corroded dark delivery and blistering cadence. In 2025 they have released a new album on COP with the chaotic blistering post punk guitars, layered in more digital swirls and psychedelic fantasy. Fans have been waiting for this record for two decades and it does not disappoint. Favorite Track: Walking On Air…that bassline…perfection.

Chris Reed – Vocals & Guitar
David Wolfenden – Guitar
Simon ‘Ding’ Archer – Bass, Synths
Martin Henderson – Drums

Strange Kind Of Paradise | Red Lorry Yellow Lorry

BELLHEAD – Threats – From Chicago my favorite duel bass dark alt murder ballad stars Bellhead put out this absolute banger record. It’s tight, it’s fierce, and it has a vibe all of it’s own. This is story telling explosion somewhere between Nick Cave and Filter. It’s even better when you see it live. it also contains a couple of wicked Remixes by Club Drugs and Stabbing Freaking Westward. The Bass growls, the guitars howl, Ivan does both. Karen makes all the edges smooth and sparkling. Threats are all my favorite things from the 90’s alt scene with the benefits of modern production. Favorite Track: Heart Shaped Hole

BELLHEAD
Karen Righeimer ~ Low Bass / Vocals
Ivan Russia ~ High Bass / Vocals / Drum Programming

All Songs Written, Performed and Produced by BELLHEAD
Management Consulting David Schock

Recorded & Mixed by Neil Strauch
Mastered by Carl Saff

Photography by Fleurette Estes
Design by Igloo Vacuum

Threats | BELLHEAD

The Funeral March of the Marionettes – It All Falls Apart – From Rockford Illinois this one is a tearjerker just to talk about. The mind child of beloved scene figure Joe Whiteaker who was taken from us too soon by cancer. His bandmate Darius McCaskey engaged some friends to make sure this record found its way into the world even after Joe’s passing. It ended up being his most profound work. A heart wrenching work of beauty and mortality. Razor sharp instrumentation, haunting vocals, and masterful production by goth legend William Faith. I just love playing this album and try not to cry picturing Joe belting his heart out. Favorite Track: Shadow Games

The Funeral March of the Marionettes is:
J. Whiteaker – Vocals, Bass, Keyboards, Programming
D. McCaskey – Bass, Programming, Backing Vocals
W. Thiele – Guitar, Backing Vocals

Additional performances by:
Ria Aursjoen (of Octavian Winters and AURSJOEN) – Vocals on “Stars at Night” and “Save Us”
Rob Hyman (of [melter]) – Drums on “Save Us” and “It All Falls Apart”
Renard Platine – Bass VI on “Bobblehead”

Remixes by Tweaker, Bellhead, and The Joy Thieves

Recorded at Studio 13
Produced, mixed & mastered by William Faith (williamfaith.studio)

Artwork by Greg Rolfes (eleven12design.com)
Photographs by Xen Photography (thexenaissance.com)

It All Falls Apart | The Funeral March of the Marionettes

Roger Ebner – EBNR – I’m a huge sucker for saxophone in darkscene music. Roger of (Pigface) is a true artist of stretching the instrument beyond it’s intended boundaries with electronic effects. His story is such an inspirational one. Being told he would never play again after a frightening diagnosis. Through perseverance and creativity he birthed this beautiful record with the help of Krstoff Liggio of legendary industrial band BILE. Favorite Track: Break It Up

EBNR | Roger Ebner

grabyourface – Sadgirl Mixtape – From France Marie has been creating their own genre of electronic sadpop that just keeps evolving. Visceral Leonard Cohen lyrical poetry with modern sensibility and gorgeous backing like grey waves rolling into the shore. This record is so raw and full of confrontational wisdom. Favorite Track: The Black of my Hoodie

Sadgirl Mixtape | grabyourface

Kali Dreamer – Imperfect Dark – From Colombus Ohio comes Kali Dreamer, one of the most talented young people in the modern scene. A lot of folks on this list are well known and talked about by other pundits of the scene. If you take away one thing to put yourself out there and try that you have never heard of it should be this CRIMINALLY underrated record. Derek Christopher does a masterful job of production to make these songs glow in the neon that modern goth can achieve. Markise Johnson is a vocal and songwriting talent that draws you in immediately. These songs tell a vivid story and expand the definition of what you thought you knew about goth. The sleazy slushy guitar work is a masterclass in tone and setting. Favorite Track: Dead Boys Don’t Fall In Love.

Markise Johnson: Music, Lyrics, Vocals
Kendall Denton: Bass Guitar
Derek Christopher: Production

Imperfect Dark | Kali Dreamer

WitchHands – Vox Nihili – Colorado band Witchhands is one of the most underrated talents in modern Deathrock. Vox Nihili is a reimagined and re-recorded version of the first WitchHands album A Voice and Nothing More (2018) with the 2025 band lineup.A Voice and Nothing More is what made me fall in love with Ryan and their sound in the first place. here hits another level of production, which the raw grizzly sound of AVANM was part of what i loved. That broken glass in a sleazy ally is still there. what they have done to create atmosphere and transport you to a horror movie landscape is different. I used to play A RPG in the 90s called Vampire the Mascarade, to set the tone for the game I would often play (joy division, Bauhaus, The Sisters,) to put my players in the right headspace. If I ran a campaign today, I would play Vox Nihili. Favorite Track: Still Derelict, it feels like being chased by a Crynos form werewolf through a New York back ally.

Ryan Flint: Vocals, Lyrics, Art
Brian “Sleazy B”: Drums, Production
Dæmien Alexander: Guitar
Danny Vigilante: Bass

Vox Nihili | WitchHands

The Funeral March “It All Falls Apart”

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In 2024 I lost a friend and the scene lost a passionate supporter in Joe Whiteaker. Joe Recorded “It All Falls Apart” in 2023, which would end up the final EP from The Funeral March of the Marionettes. The remaining band and William Faith worked together to release Joe’s final vision in March 2025. This record is a story, an important story, a human story. Joe always had a beautiful voice. One that dripped with soul. This was truly the culmination of his journey.

The Funeral March of the Marionettes is:
J. Whiteaker – Vocals, Bass, Keyboards, Programming
D. McCaskey – Bass, Programming, Backing Vocals
W. Thiele – Guitar, Backing Vocals

Additional performances by:
Ria Aursjoen (of Octavian Winters and AURSJOEN) – Vocals on “Stars at Night” and “Save Us”
Rob Hyman (of [melter]) – Drums on “Save Us” and “It All Falls Apart”
Renard Platine – Bass VI on “Bobblehead”

Remixes by Tweaker, Bellhead, and The Joy Thieves

https://thefuneralmarch.bandcamp.com/album/it-all-falls-apart

Stars At Night : The album opens on this sinister misty streets in autumn banger. Gorgeous opening tom lead right out of the Martin Hannett playbook. I love how well the music matches the concept in the lyrics. Life is fast, brutal and full of beauty. “The stars at night are burning silver Burn bright and quickly fade away Our fates are written on flash paper Touched to the flame and burnt away”. You don’t need the context to feel the universal core of mortality.

Shadow Games : The tone and vocals speed forward for a more modern edge. A New York City early 2000s feel that lets Joe croon and resonate. The Rhythm section is more open and pastel to let the poetry breath. A haunting chorus hopeful and tragic in equal measure. “No matter which path that you take It all ends the same Fire reflects in your dark eyes A moth drawn to the flame Silently, you will make your move In this fatal game”

Bobblehead: Slowing things down for introspection. A touch of shoegaze slush and delay to the cadence. I love that understated guitar line that matches the baseline. The lyrics drip with longing and the melody is a whisper that leaves you leaning in to be a part of the secret. “How did you keep from showing? Did the awful secret break your heart? The distance kept on growing You knew that one day that you would depart”

Save Us: Comes snarling up with delayed Love and Rockets guitars and some hunger to the vocals. William Faith has his fingerprints on a lot of the tone and sound of this record, but here most of all. Obsidian axe death rock stalking towards you with purpose. The punk rock political overtones really bleed out of this track. The background wails at 2:20 gave me chills. I love different tracks for different reasons but if I had to pick a favorite gun to my head it is Save Us. “The world is on fire now As we watch it burn Dance on a funeral pyre Everyone will take their turn”

Joe was beloved by this scene and Chicago in particular. it took a lot of people and a lot of love to make this happen. I have an interview with Darius we recorded shortly after the memorial show which I will add to this review. The 4 standout remixes by Tweaker, Bellhead, and The Joy Thieves. The art by Greg Rolfes (eleven12design.com). The Mixing and Mastering by William Faith (williamfaith.studio). All came together to show the lasting legacy Joe had on all of us. If you are new to The Funeral March of the Marionettes maybe go start with “Resurgence” and work your way forward, but they really did save the best for last. This was the highest evolution and the way I always want to remember a friend and artists who shared everything in his heart.

Sounds and Shadows Darkscene Singles Chart Jan-March 2025

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The return of the Darkscene singles chart. I was inspired a few years ago to create a recognition chart that was not pay to play. Where anyone could submit and be voted on by our diverse group of Djs, Reviewers, Artists, Superfans, and promotors. I took the top 10 vote getters of the 1st three months of 2025 for you to check out here. In April I will start a fresh poll, so if you have a single in the broad darkscene genre, please submit in our group or on our patreon which is free 🙂

  1. Slighter X Fatigue – EDGEBOI
  2. Grabyourface – Feeling Morbid
  3. Die Warzau – I Am A Camera
  4. Cassandra Complex – Cover of Suzy Sabotage Nazi Goths Fuk Off
  5. Bellhead – Theats
  6. Steven Archer – Acceptance Song
  7. Roger Ebner – Break It Up
  8. Brides – Love In The Dust
  9. Tears For The Dying – Jolene (Dolly Parton Cover)
  10. Kali Dreamer – New Twilight
  11. Cliff and Ivy – Devil’s Helpers
  1. SLIGHTER x FATIGUE – EDGEBOI – Amazing team up of the California sonic sculptor Colin Cameron and Lillian of Sawtooth. I’m a fan of both projects so this was a collaboration with high expectations. This track kicks in the door to the club with maximum thump. I love the saucy cadence of Lillian’s vocals, she is really twirling the lasso of truth here. I dare you not to move when this is banging.

https://confusioninc.bandcamp.com/album/edgeboi-single

2) grabyourface – Feeling Morbid – French sadtrance artist with another emotive album of spiraling poetry and sinister underground beats. This track is my favorite single. Marie’s vocal cadence drips from the mouth like hooka smoke. This new album really hits the sweet spot between a more advanced production and the raw lofi style of Sea. You really need this album.

https://grabyourface.bandcamp.com/track/feeling-morbid

3) Die Warzau – I am a Camera – This release has several remixes, I submitted the RED mix. Some of my earliest Industrial music memories are of Die Warzau. That magical funky glitch poetry falling down a spiral staircase like a mechanized tornado. The chaos of this song surrounds you and draws the ear to different instruments in every phrase. They stand up in 2025 just as powerfully as in 1994.

https://diewarzau.bandcamp.com/album/i-am-a-camera

4) The Cassandra Complex – Nazi Goths Fuck Off (Suzi Sabotage cover) – Two brilliant artists I love blended together into weaponized nazi slaying glory. Rodney Orpheus (Proto goth legends The Cassandra Complex ) covering modern anthem Nazi Goths Fuk Off. This has a spicy bopping electro wave bass drone wave that Rodney’s sharp tooth baritone slides over the top of. Goth is political, it always was, and both these artists understood the assignment in 2025.

https://thecassandracomplex.bandcamp.com/album/nazi-goths-fuck-off-suzi-sabotage-cover

5) BELLHEAD – Threats – My favorite Chicago double bass dark indie darlings with a sexy new single full of menace and William Burroughs energy. The guitar and basslines are a Wimbledon champion match of high speed volley that really raises the stakes. Ivan’s growling whisper is superb. If you have been sleeping on Bellhead you need to wake up right away.

https://bellhead.bandcamp.com/album/threats

6) Steven Archer – Acceptance Song – Solo album from March by Steven of (Ego Likeness, Stoneburner, probably 5 other projects). I’ll review the entire EP soon, but this was the single that really struck me first. I love how different it sounds than his other work. You can feel he had some uncorked feelings that didn’t fit in his other boxes but needed to burst forth like Athena out of his head. Some 70’s prog pop flavors fastened to the deck of crunchy modern industrial beats. Beautiful vocal effects give a David Gilmore flare and beauty I rarely hear him explore. The result is magnificent. The drum fills feel so organic I genuinely can’t tell if they were a machine. The mystery keeps me fascinated.

https://stevenarcher.bandcamp.com/track/05-acceptance-song

7) Roger Ebner – Break it Up – There are certain themes I discuss in S & S often and one is my love for Sax in modern music. Roger’s story is inspirational and his talent remarkable. The Pigface saxophone virtuoso put out this sassy IndustrialFunk mixed by Krstoff of BILE, and Vessy Mink on vocals. The result is smokey, carnal, and full of flickering motion. I included the recent interview below which is a must see if you don’t know Roger’s story.

https://rogerebner1.bandcamp.com/track/break-it-up-3

8) BRIDES – Love In The Dust – A new heist film single from Norway by apocalypse pop artist Adrian Kjøsnes. Crooning like Eldrich, with reverent pipe organs, and tank tread bass. BRIDES continues to stand out among the underground for creativity and precision in a world lacking in either.

https://bridesmusic.bandcamp.com/track/love-in-the-dust

9) Tears for the Dying – Jolene (Dolly Parton Cover) – The Queen of modern deathrock doing a sultry swampgoth version of the Dolly Parton classic. This song is so iconic it is really difficult to make it your own, but Adria has infused it with her essence. Haunting and nostalgic with a hint of danger. Magnificent.

https://tearsforthedying.bandcamp.com/track/jolene-re-recorded-remastered

10) Kali Dreamer – New Twilight – Since this album released in Feb from Ohio goth artist Markise Johnson i can’t stop telling people about it. We need a return to romantic goth music. Longing and beautiful in a circle of candles writing poems in a cemetery. The production level is a huge step forward and Markise vocals are breathtaking. This is a tight race with A Covenant Of Thorns for best romantic goth since The Cure “Disintegration” I said what i said.

https://kalidreamer.bandcamp.com/track/new-twilight

Special Mention) Cliff and Ivy: Alaska’s goth duo – Devil’s Helpers – Since I was doing three months together for this chart I threw in an honorable mention from the Alaskan goth duo Cliff and Ivy. Nice thrashing guitar death rock with Ivy’s hungry wolf snarl vocals. If you need a song to drink everclear and spit into a bonfire, this is your jam.

https://cliffandivy.bandcamp.com/track/devils-helpers

Stabbing Westward with Caustic and Bellhead

on By

Text by Jen Wilson-Farley (Ladyspythenight)

at Crucible, Madison, WI, April 25th, 2024

Before I talk about these incredible artists separately, I wanted to just say that this evening was a masterclass in the many possible moods of live performance. It was an absolute joy to witness.
Let’s start with the legendary Stabbing Westward.

Stabbing Westward

This band needs no introduction to our audience (although I had to learn more as I’d missed their huge years while being overseas and unaware). We’ll mostly be focusing here on what this incredible band did at this very special, intimate show.

It was Crucible’s first ever sold-out concert, and the buzz and anticipation was palpable. Filled with people from all over, some who’d even flown in for the show, the club had a festive feel during and after being entertained by the incredible Bellhead and Caustic. Now it was time for the moment many of the people present had waited two decades for.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

Chris Hall is a rock vocalist like few others. With an incredible range and control, he powered into their first song, “Ungod.” As the foreboding, slow-build grind of bass and Chris’s voice start the song off, we are suddenly taken into a classic SW chorus…

Take this as an offering/Take this as a sign/How much can you take from me?

Other original band member, Walter Flakus, was an energetic presence, with his keyboard set right on the lip of the stage when he wasn’t leaping around on bass. Carlton Bost (of Orgy, Deadsy, and The Dreaming [Hall’s other band]) on guitar and Bobby Amaro (Orgy) on drums rounded out the incredible line up.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

Three songs in, they launched into The Cure’s “Burn.” The gothier element of the room were especially thrilled and danced in whatever space they could find. It was a gorgeous and loving take on the song, assisted by beautiful crow imagery from the video backdrop.

The more industrial, synth-and-bass heavy “Lies” was probably my favorite moment of their set.
It brought me back to what I loved most about 90s alternative music with its heavy guitar riffs and anxious synth lines.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

Though they didn’t play much from their latest, critically-acclaimed album from 2022, Chasing Ghosts, when they did, the results were electrifying. “Dead & Gone” is a throbbing beauty, with Hall’s vocals at their richest on the verses, while most urgent and powerful on the chorus. Vocals being my absolute focus when at any live show, this song, which shows off his skills so beautifully, was an absolute joy to hear. I was especially astonished to hear that Hall had dealt with throat cancer just two years ago. What a talent and survivor.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

“Violent Mood Swings” (video below) was so much fun. Being up at the front with everyone singing along was so great to experience. The beat of this song is so intense and Hall continued to work the crowd, coming up on the middle monitor throughout the show, encouraging their participation. He was clearly having a great time.

Ending the set with two encores, and 16 songs in total, was “Save Yourself.” Hall asked, “You guys ok if we end with a brand new song?” This song was a perfect way to end this intense and intimate set. The crowd were in heaven and the band (especially Hall and Flakus) seemed to be relishing every last moment.

An absolute delight to see. May we see more of this beloved band on the road in the future.

Stabbing Westward’s setlist:
Ungod
Falls Apart
Burn (The Cure cover)
Wasted
Lies
Sometimes it Hurts
Drugstore
What Do I Have to Do?
Slipping Away
Dead & Gone
So Far Away
Nothing
Inside You
The Thing I Hate
Violent Mood Swings
Save Yourself

Stabbing Westward’s 2022 album, Chasing Ghosts, can be found here on Bandcamp:

https://stabbingwestward.bandcamp.com/album/chasing-ghosts-2

Check out DMNX’s incredible live concert photography at:

https://dmnxphoto.pixieset.com

Caustic

Caustic’s Matt Fanale came ready to party. As he said in a later interview, “I want to harness the energy and the passion of the moment and not pretend I’m all angry when I’m in a good place in my life and with my music. I want to throw a party. The world is a fucking mess right now. Let’s lose our minds for 45 minutes. Trust me, we’re going to have fun.”

Having seen Fanale’s other projects Klack and daddybear live, this was my first time seeing Caustic. When I asked about Caustic’s onstage persona, he said, “A lot of artists like to assume a character on stage, but I’m pretty much the louder version of myself.” He prowls back and forth like a slightly crazed tiger who’s in on a joke no one else knows, and it’s incredibly fun to watch.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

Caustic was joined onstage by core live members Eric Oehler (of Klack and Null Device), (who was in charge of tracks, manipulation, and glitch) and Katja Lunde (formerly of Sensuous Enemy), providing atmosphere and “additional beep boops” and vocal support, as well as newer addition Bob O’Tron
(of Sensuous Enemy and Subcutaneous) on drums.

Second song in, “White Knuckle Head F—k” (video below) was pure industrial joy. If there’d been more room in the sold out show, I’d have been dancing like a maniac. Irreverent, self-deprecating lyrics like:

Watch me fall… I’m your favorite trainwreck

are part of what has earned Caustic such a loyal following over the years.

Video courtesy of Jen Wilson-Farley

“Bigger Better Faster Now!!!’s” repeated opening squeal is the intro to a song that reads like a scathing critique of the last gasps of end-stage capitalism. Its driving beat is intense and exciting.

“F—k that Fascist Beat” (video below) continued Caustic’s assault on the powers that be. All of which feels increasingly relevant, even though these sentiments can be traced back to the early days of punk. As Fanale said of his ethos, “it’s always been more punk than ‘industrial’ anyway. The more chaos and insanity I can put out the better, and the more the crowd comes with me, the more of an experience it is for everybody.” Refuse/resist/raise your fist… always feels reassuring to hear in ridiculous and terrifying times like ours.

Video courtesy of Jen Wilson-Farley

During “Bury You Alive,” it was cathartic and fun as hell to hear Caustic scream “EAT SHIT!” and ask the audience to scream back “FUCK YOU!” (in the style of UW Madison student football fans) repeatedly. If there were ever any question of pretense, the punk-inspired back and forth between Caustic and the audience blew it out of the water. Watching Caustic and the fans flip each other off was a delight.

Photo courtesy of DMNXphoto

When I asked Caustic what it meant to open for the legendary Stabbing Westward, “I’m definitely a fan. Chris Hall has a great sense of humor in front of a crowd, so it’s a nice notch on my bedpost playing with them at a sold-out show in my hometown. We all brought the noise. It was a great time.”

A Caustic show is irreverent, sarcastic, fun, and never takes itself too seriously. It is hugely refreshing to witness. He’s been taking Caustic’s sound in a different direction, as seen on his most recent release, Buggy. This was inspired heavily by artists such as Techno Animal’s Brotherhood of the Bomb, Kevin Martin, aka The Bug, Scorn, Gorgonn, Choke Chain, Puerta Negra, and Nuxx Vomica. When reflecting on his slower tempo, mostly instrumental Buggy EP, he said, “There’s so much energy in slower BPMs that have a lot of low end bass on them. It’s been fun playing with those sounds,” he explained.

Sadly though, according to Fanale, there may not be many more Caustic shows going forward, though he does plan to make more music. He said, “I kinda like the thought of my stay being finite. I’d rather do an Irish goodbye than stick around until it’s embarrassing that the handjob guy is still yelling F—K a lot at a crowd which may not wanna pay a babysitter to hear that anymore. We’ll see, the internal debate rages on.”

Even without more live shows in the works, Caustic’s new work, along with Klack and daddybear, keep him a very busy man.

Caustic’s setlist:
Intro
White Knuckle Head F—k
Bigger Better Faster Now!!!
Little Pharma
Emmanuel Lewis Handjob
F—k That Fascist Beat
Bury You Alive

https://caustic.bandcamp.com

Check out DMNX’s incredible live concert photography at:

https://dmnxphoto.pixieset.com

Bellhead

I have reviewed and interviewed Chicago’s Bellhead before, after seeing them for the first time at Crucible a few years ago. I was beyond thrilled to see them again as they opened for Stabbing Westward and Caustic. Starting 2024 off at the inaugural Thrashnetic Festival (a memorial and suicide prevention benefit) in Milwaukee, Bellhead have been touring a lot this spring, and will be heading to Missouri and back to Tennessee this summer.

For those new to Bellhead, their website’s tagline reads:
Post-punk male-female duo band. Two basses and a drum machine. No Guitar, No BS.
MADE IN CHICAGO 

This really is the cleverest and most accurate description of a band I’ve ever seen. High bass, lead-vocalist Ivan Russia and low bass, vocalist Karen Righeimer-Schock and are on a mission as one of the most exciting and unique bands in our scene. Labeled as everything from punk to goth, and everything in between, they defy the norms and expectations all too often set in the darker genres.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

Ripping into the set with “Mercy,” the grungy low bassline set the tone for their set. The audience, likely very new to them, was immediately won over.

Next was a newer song, “Into the Deep,” from their most recent EP, Good Intentions. This song shows off Russia’s lyric-writing skills, which are marvelous and unique.

I was a drowning man/She had a cold war stare/Under blood red skies/We had a sordid affair
I was a penitent man/She was my skeleton key/I had a new handshake/Before they turned on me

I asked them about the themes of their lyrics, and Russia had this to say, “I like unreliable narrators. When there is a sole survivor of a shipwreck, do you take him at his word? I wanted to go all in on song lyrics that were open to interpretation. Are the intentions truly good or is there something else unseen?”

Soon following was their cover of Prince’s “I Would Die For U.” They put a decidedly darker post-punk turn on this classic, which was brought down to its brass tacks in a most beautiful way. Its lyrics weirdly match so much of their style.

Their stage presence is fun and commanding at the same time, while looking somehow effortless. Launching into “Bad Taste,” Russia hams it up to mock his protagonist. Halfway through, he screams his lyrics midway in a convincing burst of anger. Then as Righeimer-Schock starts a juicy, low solo, they go into their signature double bass bridge that, to me, shows off the core of their unique sound
(video below).

Video courtesy of Jen Wilson-Farley

Bellhead’s philsophy of performance is highly refreshing. When I asked what the most important elements of their shows were most important to them as a band, Russia responded, “We’re here to entertain. We work to make sure every minute we are onstage is entertaining. I try to give everyone in the audience at least one eye locking moment of attention during the show. We strive to give back to the audience all the joy they give us. Enthusiasm is a virus to spread.”

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

They ended their high-energy set with what’s become one of my favorite songs in general, “Unicorn Bones.” The crowd was definitely giving back the joy for this song, with many at the front dancing as much as they could on the packed floor. Always a great sign for an opener for such a huge band as Stabbing Westward. They explained that they are not only fans, but have also worked with them in the past. A Chris Hall remix will even be appearing on their next EP!

I loved their responses to my question about how to stay sane while touring as a busy band with many other responsibilities in their lives.

Photo courtesy of DMNX.photo

Russia: “Bananas and water keep my body taped together.”
Righeimer-Schock: “The trick is to be kind to yourself. And don’t forget to call your mother.”

Bellhead’s setlist:
Mercy
Into the Deep
Frankenstein
I Would Die For U
Bad Taste
Heart Shaped Hole (New Song)
Nothing as it Seems
Unicorn Bones

BELLHEAD BAD TASTE TOUR 2024

5.3 Black Lodge: Memphis TN w/ Palm Ghosts / DJ Evonech
5.4 5 Spot: Nashville TN w/ Palm Ghosts / Cold Equations
5.10 Cobra Lounge: Chicago IL w/ Young Medicine / Danny Blu
5.11 Healer: Indianapolis IN w/ Cemetery Sex / DJ Kaleidoscope
7.19 Flavor 90s Bar: Nashville TN w/ Cassette Stress / Sugar Skulls
7.20 Rude Dog Pub: Cape Girardeau MO w/ Gary Robert and Community

https://bellhead.bandcamp.com/music

Check out DMNX photo’s incredible concert photography here:

https://www.instagram.com/dmnx.photo/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR17Ithorjy1cRjcPAsXZD3vsXwPVFTPjm3I1At-3rPVKxANPGYKX7GDMtM_aem_AYHFZD3Jb2RLZyIV5zl5qp2ky7rotFKfi4r-E_AWkp1m91O0wGcz3iDb5ul1td9837kh9Mbh7c-dfxJeYvTrfL2K

Sounds and Shadows 2023 Top Darkscene Albums

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  This has been a tough year for a lot of people personally. A year where we lost many friends and beloved artists in this scene. Though history strife and conflict have often been the inspiration for great art. A catalyst that helps us search for truth and test boundaries. This was a year of amazing new music that touched my heart and inspired me. As always I won’t try and rate or list every record I enjoyed. I think to cover everything and try and place it in a tidy box of genre is to lose the magic I feel getting to tell you all about something new. So I will tell you all about the Albums and Eps that touched me deepest in 2023. I hope in 2024 I discover even more and make twice as many friends like you to share it with. I’m not going to write in any particular order. If a record is on this list, I hold it in high esteem.

unitcode:machine – Critical Fault – The growth and innovation Eric Kristoffer achieved with this release is staggering. Signing with COP International to release this cold icicle dagger of EDM pop hooks and pounding industrial machinery. Eric’s vocals are captivating and unexpected. Chris Hall (Stabbing Westward) did the a masterful and modern job of the mixing and you can hear both his influence as well his belief and passion for what Eric wrote. I expect by this time next year A Lot of fans of electronic music are going to be talking about unitcode:machine.

Critical Fault | unitcode:machine (bandcamp.com)

A Cloud of Ravens – -Lost Hymns– Another story about huge achievements this year are the Brooklyn based duo infusing sharp jagged punk rock with the mystery and romantism of gothic rock. Produced by Jackknife Studio’s the heavy bass and exaltation in the vocals melt together into something spiritual that burns with passion. I love that Matt’s vocals aren’t afraid to be dramatic. His delivery adds so much to the narrative. The dedication to gothic driven rock is what ties together the record. The thing that makes it stand out in 2023. My favorite track is one of the most synth heavy electronic crooners “Old Ghosts“. A top to bottom stand out that explores the vocal range sense of exploration that makes ACOR shine brightest. This record is the perfect accompaniment for almost every activity. It longs to bring you on adventures.

‘LOST HYMNS’ | A Cloud of Ravens (bandcamp.com)

BELLHEAD – Good Intentions – Chicago based double bass duo Karen and Ivan are supporters of one of the largest scenes in the US. They play eclectic dark alt horror that confronts and energizes. The May release is a roller-coaster off the tracks, chaotic, dangerous, and alluring. Image rich poetry bouncing in a dialog of vocals to bouncing bass and stabbing guitars. Ivan’s voice is a whispered menace that gnaws the back of your neck while Karen’s cadence draws you forward. Favorite track: Valentine – This sad pop bopping guitar crossing something sinister and a blissful ignorance of what stalks you is an amazing sensation.

Good Intentions | BELLHEAD (bandcamp.com)

The Bellwether Syndicate – Vestige & Vigil – This record is a modern day classic. Released in 2023 to great acclaim by darkscene insiders, this is a record I think will keep gaining momentum in 2024. William, Sara, and Phil all hold impressive pedigree in this scene. Vestige & Vigil was their chance to place their stamp on the modern conversation of post punk by drawing in the collective anxiety and rage of the modern world, pressing it into a cool thrumming gem, then hurling it with a snarling curse at an unfeeling world. It takes true expertise to hone the ethos of filthy punk rock into something this smooth and concentrated. I can’t think of higher praise than saying picture “Raw Power” recorded by Martin Hannett in Manchester with 2023 gear. William just took a break from his role in March Violets to focus on The Bellwether Syndicate and touring, so please make sure to look for them coming to play near you. This will be the band everyone is talking about.

Vestige & Vigil | The Bellwether Syndicate (bandcamp.com)

Beborn Beton – Darkness Falls Again – We waited too long for a new release from legendary German electropop from Beborn Beton. When the wait was over, dear gods was it worth it. This record is a master class on songcraft, beauty, and emotional complexity. Stefan Netschio croons away with a leather whip delivery. All eight tracks are a spinning cyberpunk ballroom to get lost in. Dancer In The Dark is an all-time own the floor banger. One of those tracks that has longevity to break through the surface of todays vast ocean of new synth music.

Darkness Falls Again | Beborn Beton (bandcamp.com)

Antipole & Paris Alexander – Crystalline – Antipole is a Norway based post punk band I first fell in love with in 2017 with Karl’s first release “Northern Flux“. They have collaborated with many European top darkscene talents. In my humble opinion Karl has the best guitar tone in the genre. However that is something I have come to expect from all of Karl’s albums. That is not what made this record shine so brightly. This record was a far more collaborative effort which highlighted the soul and range of Paris Alexander and Eirene. This made characters and voices of complexity to dance on the shining crystal world Karl had built. Gorgeous and impactful, below is a link to a rare interview I did with Karl about the record. This is an album that transports you.

Crystalline | Antipole & Paris Alexander | Antipole (bandcamp.com)

A Covenant of Thorns – Ashes – Scott-David Allen has been making some of the best romantic goth since The Cure “Disintegration” for the last couple decades largely below the radar of the world discussion. Bringing in Gordon Young the legendary goth guitar whisperer to master and provide presence was a match made in heaven. Cascading minor tones wet with sorrow and storm cloud beauty. Some artists just know how to stab me right in the heart with emotional presence. The track “Idols” is a full on melodramatic John Hughes standing in the rain as you watch her walk away experience. Plunge headlong into the forlorn and broken beauty.

Ashes | A Covenant of Thorns (bandcamp.com)

Odonis Odonis – ICON – Toronto dark spectrum artists Constantin Tzenos and Denholm Whale flipped the script again with this new EP. Bringing in a series of great contributors like Tobacco, A Place to Bury Strangers, Actors, SUUNS, and Patriarchy to turn up the heat on a sizzling 90’s alternative chaos. ICON shifts boldly between styles and texture while tying each song back to the badass black leather jacket metric. Walking around with earbuds through the world, every song makes you feel cooler. A little more invincible, a little more fearless. Brilliant Things Feat: Terror Bird was my standout track on an album full of them. Bold longing flung forward as confident vulnerability.

ICON | Odonis Odonis (bandcamp.com)

Black Rose Burning – Ad Astra – The September EP from NY’s George Grant. The man I refer to as the Peter Gabriel of goth. Transcendent stories in distant galaxies, a hyperdrive range and astral bardic delivery. All of these songs feel so timeless, vibrating on a frequency between the past and future. Jason Corbett did the mastering to create sleek lines for maximum warp. Folks are finally starting to take notice of George’s talent and vision. Your collection deserves “Ad Astra“

Ad Astra | Black Rose Burning (bandcamp.com)

MALE TEARS – KRYPT – LA Futurewave artists that have gone through a lineup change since this album give me hope for the future. A Young vibrant addition to the scene that forged their own path. Some people dream in synth sounds, bright fractalated hyper colors. James has a soul for the dramatic and a beautiful voice to carry the message of cleverness. This record is the ideal for the 13 person rager. Lit, but exclusive.

KRYPT | MALE TEARS (bandcamp.com)

Choke Chain – Mortality –  Mark Trueman the Hardcore Industrial Punk artist from Wisconsin is one of those pure souls you love to see succeed. Taking hard industrial beats and unleashing vocal wounds with genuine intensity that never feels like a performance. Mortality is another step in the evolution in this synthesis of chaotic electronic club thunder, with piercing confrontation of depression and rage. The truest art should take us to the edge of a precipice, beholding excitement and terror. That is the place Choke Chain takes us. I think this record is something that won’t be fully appreciated until we have had a decade to reflect on it.

Mortality | Choke Chain (bandcamp.com)

BRIDES – The Earth Defeats Me – I have been a major fan of Norway’s modular doom rocker Adrian Borgia for some time, through several projects. This is the record I have been waiting for. The promise of potential I have always seen brought into that perfect moment. Stirring the shadowy depths of the primordial ooze that made that first proto goth sound touch that place in the hearts of everyone on the outside of the circle. Chalices is a 10/10 eerie live in your dreams balled as familiar as it is unique. The religious dedication to modular sway pans like dark water in the underworld. Lean desperate wolf growls which have latched onto fresh meat clarity which allow the poetry to shine. For everyone waiting on the bridge between the earliest death rock and stripped down modern coldwave, it has arrived.

The Earth Defeats Me | BRIDES (bandcamp.com)

Ashes Fallen – Walk Through Fire – Sacramento dark rock trio Ashes Fallen had another blazing guitar forward September release from their “Chapel” recording studio. The vocal duties between Michelle and James have found a wonderful balance. The tone is a reflection of the foreboding world closing in. Sprinkled liberally with a sparkle and glam of London After Midnight. Gordan Young has yet another mastering credit on my best of list by bringing the sharpest edges to these shimmering riffs. Favorite Track: Scar , which is definitely not a single at 5:16. it is a captivating slow build emotional exposition that really highlights the range and sincerity of their collective experience. Ashes Fallen continues to be a standout example of the place where passion and execution meet in the modern era of music.

Walk Through Fire | Ashes Fallen (bandcamp.com)

Sapphira Vee – Fortune – Sapphira from New York state is a great example of an artist I have gotten to watch the growth and development of in real time. The daring courage of her voice and the added components of her collaborators have expanded the limits or motion and image. I feel enraptured by the emergence of a woman’s experience and sensuality expressed unfiltered. This album is intimate, nuanced, unburdened by the insecurities of the past. It harkens 90’s trip hop balanced with the soul and execution of modern darkpop. Favorite Track: Those Words feat Jean Marc Lederman – The Belgian composer is well known for finding the perfect backdrop to highlight a story. The cadence that Sapphira uses in this track is the perfect exposition of her beauty and power. The music evaporates when she steps forward, and rises as she whispers a secret. I love when a story shines in a perfect moment. There is nothing more beautiful then watching an artist evolve in a heart stopping moment.

Fortune | Sapphira Vee (bandcamp.com)

NIGHT NAIL – Fates Explained – This record was a late comer releasing in November from the Berlin Germany transplants Night Nail. Finding a third home of Metropolis Records and mastered by sonic sculptor Pete Burns (Kill Shelter) this abstract concept darkwave has ridden the cusp of the modern scene staying under the radar of popular post punk audiences. Brandon Robert brings an expressive Mark Sandman baritone I feared we may never witness again. I know I said I wasn’t going to rank these records as they all have a distinct brilliance, but this record really hits with an intention, an impact, the transcends enjoyable club music. A complex puzzle to patiently unravel over the next decade. Favorite Track: Narcoleptic Dream Catcher – This one has a throwback Ian McCulloch beauty and depth. Valentine’s backup vocals cast the perfect backlight against the slithering groove. A forgotten hit plucked out of time.

Fates Explained | NIGHT NAIL (bandcamp.com)

VNV Nation – Electric Sun – Confession time, I slept on VNV Nation for WAY too long. Ronan Harris released his first full length since 2018 and it is absolutely breathtaking. The craft, the expression, the undeniable honesty of this record gets beneath your skin. I felt things, ask questions, experienced what art is meant to mean. The art of lyrics as the primary focus in modern songcraft is a sadly lost focus in 2023. This album is everything you ask from modern production while delivering Leonard Cohen level poetry. I am a convert. A believer. I will never sleep on the power and impact of VNV Nation again. Favorite Track: The Game – I have played this song 100 times and the hair on the back of my arms stand up every single time. Some songs just hit a perfect spot, in a perfect moment. They become unforgettable. This is one of those tracks.

Electric Sun | VNV Nation (bandcamp.com)

Bedless Bones – Mire of Mercury – Another late release November 2023 from my favorite band in Estonia. Kadri Sammel has such a unique vocal cadence and energetic world beat percussion texture. A flowing aquatic fantasy of motion and prophesy. This album is shrouded in mystery. An internal exploration of body and soul.

Mire of Mercury | Bedless Bones (bandcamp.com)

Gazelle Twin – Black Dog – Awesome UK band I just discovered this year. Lot’s of gorgeous textured analog synths. Powerful psychedelic Grace Slick style vocals. This band immediately capture me by being creative in a way no one else was doing. A tempo and attack outside the box of what is popular in this moment. The growling industrial version of the Doors of Perception. The lyrics are delivered with poetic intensity. From the moment I heard that first single Black Dog I was hooked. Music without boundaries and rules that captures my dreams. This will always move me.

Black Dog | Gazelle Twin (bandcamp.com)

HEALTH – RAT WARS – LA band that waited until the end of the year to put out one of the most groundbreaking and emotive offerings I heard all year. I know I said I wasn’t going to rank these albums but this was an instant classic banger. It perfectly rides the pipe of beauty and destructive power. Lightning in a bottle of honey dripping warm amber vocals and sand blasting cannon guitars. “Hateful” is an inferno club banger that builds an obsidian castle in your brain and never lets go. This album came out December 2023 so I didn’t get to spend as much time with it as others on this list. That in no way diminished that the first time I heard it I was floored with just how perfectly it balanced the range of human emotion. This record will be something people talk about for years to come.

RAT WARS | HEALTH (bandcamp.com)

Aurelio Voltaire – The Last Halloween Party – As a comedy goth artist the niche pool of artists to look up to is not a vast pool. It is no secret that Aurelio Voltaire is a bit of a personal hero, getting to open for him in 2023 was a highlight of my musical career. Getting a chance to drive him around while listening to this record pre-release was one of those moments that reminds me why I do this. Dark music can be fun, it can be clever, it is diverse and connects with us in all aspects of the human experience. I remember him saying to me “I am a goth who plays music, not a goth musician.” It’s jazz, folk, fusion, all prancing around the fire, stories to send a chill up your spine. There is a very good reason he has continued to entrance fans around the world for decades. An understanding that exploring the darkness and gallows humor within us all is what connects all the misfit children around the world. I can’t wait to play with him again in Detroit in May.

The Last Halloween Party | Aurelio Voltaire (bandcamp.com)

SOPOR AETERNUS & The Ensemble Of Shadows – The Rules – German band that continues to do some of the most impactful and unique darkscene music year after year. An intelligent and abstract experience in a completely different category than the rest of the genre. A little Dead Can Dance, a pinch of The Swans, a smattering of Legendary Pink Dots, all whirling through a Nick Cave mist so theatrically their own. As a reviewer it is so difficult to try and define an experience so unique. No matter how many times I discover a new Sopor Aeternus album I am always struck by how glorious and innovative it is in a sea of ships moving closer together.

The Rules (2023) | SOPOR AETERNUS & The Ensemble Of Shadows (bandcamp.com)

Lana Del Rabies – STREGA BEATA – The impressive 3rd record from Arizona artist Lana Del Rabies. A sinking bog ritual of strings and vibration. A longing prayer to darker forces. This is soulful pleading music felt in the bloodstream. Something old and dangerous called forth from dark woods to transform your dancefloor into a spell of summoning. Don’t enter into this album lightly. It is a summoning. It is a crack in the doorway between dreams and reality. To create something so unnerving and captivating is an act of courage. A thing of defiance. A challenge to the other side.

STREGA BEATA | Lana Del Rabies (bandcamp.com)

genCAB – Signature Flaws – Philly electronic artist David Dutton has captured an idea which seems elementary, but has continued to illude the masses. The lilting anthem driving vocals of emo, and the complex vibrating impact of electronic dance music. It’s bouncing expression you feel in your bones, while vulnerable narrative lyrics offer up something relatable and transformative. The title track Signature Flaws I takes two complex ideas and curls them into perfect synthesis. As someone who came late to the game with emo music, this record blends the best parts of the early 2000s into something fresh and progressive. An album for the future blending ideas not fully realized.

Signature Flaws | genCAB (bandcamp.com)

Korine – Tear – Another incredible Philly band blending the most pastel beautiful aspects of Jesus and Mary Chain shoegaze, Synthwave, and 90s Britpop. The wispy sass of the vocals are a sonic cotton candy I can always get lost in. Pure dopamine poured into your ears. Korine have major star potential and are high on the list of bands I must see live in the near future.

Tear | Korine (bandcamp.com)

SWANS – The Beggar – Return of New York electro doom folk and controversial songwriter Michael Gira with a record that both surprised me and lived up to high expectations. Winding freeform psychedelic murder ballads all clocking in over 6 minutes. Only one single Los Angeles City Of Death, mostly a hard diet of brown acid campfire tales of cosmic horror. A revealing soul exploration that left me inspired and frightened in equal measure. Don’t try and digest this in one go. You need to take many bites before settling in for the meal. It is a meal well worth the wait though. Staggering, brilliant, tortured.

The Beggar | SWANS (bandcamp.com)

Randolph & Mortimer – The Incomplete Truth – The Sheffield, UK artist released this bouncing electropunk symphony of gears and pistons in perpetual motion. It walks heavy with blue collar confidence through a warehouse district after dark. I think one of the hardest things to master in electronic dance music laden with samples is the exact moment to drop them for maximum impact. To not overuse so that the single spoken line sets the scenery without the need for poetic lyrics. The Incomplete Truth achieves an almost robotic precision in it’s efficiency and impact. Never a wasted line, never a bridge that wears out it’s welcome. A place for everything and everything in it’s place.

The Incomplete Truth | Randolph & Mortimer (bandcamp.com)

OMD – Bauhaus Staircase – Another big name legacy band with a return to form in this dystopian fantasywave. I really love how they found new ways to attack the same vamp. A whimsical dance through the streets of a crumbling society. Kleptocracy was my favorite single, the vocals had a slippery magma quality. Bright pop with a thoughtful political relevance. I don’t know if anyone had thought OMD had started to miss the beat, but they most certainly have not.

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark – Bauhaus Staircase – Amazon.com Music

††† (Crosses) – Goodnight, God Bless, I Love U, Delete. – LA band that folks are always recommending to me but I never really dug into until this year. I real David Gahan sensuality in the vocals with a more modern glitchy vibe to the darkpop sound. Lot’s of club singles to choose from, an album of dance floor bangers. The occasions when things turn up to 11 quickly against the smooth poppy hooks to smash you with morning star intensity. It’s deceptive in ways that keep you on high alert. Unexpected depth, unexpected intensity, a return to mystique I have longed for.

Amazon.com: Goodnight, God Bless, I Love U, Delete. (2 LP): CDs & Vinyl

thePicassos – Divination Scars: among the dead in symmetry – As a big fan of the Detroit band the thing that has always impressed me most about Charles and company is the intention and thought that goes into every aspect of their performance. Such an eclectic bizarre mixture of styles from 50s doo wop to 90’s Pixies dark alt. Charles has a slippery devotion to every story he sets. Another of my favorite 2023 discoveries that the wider world needs to jump on board with.

Divination Scars: among the dead in symmetry | thePicassos (bandcamp.com)

Ritual Howls – Virtue Falters – 5th record from Detroit post rock Ritual Howls. My obsession with Yee haw goth is well documented and Virtue Falters really plays up the Johnny Cash aspect of country caught in the current of Fields of the Nephelium tragic guitars. The real power comes from how much complexity the songs have while maintaining a very straight forward groove. it’s no easy feat to capture both ideals in equal measure. It feels like one of those old school records where 3 humans locked themselves in an abandoned warehouse and got weird together for two months. Something that either leads to brilliance or madness. Never in between and Virtue Falters tapped the former.

▶︎ Virtue Falters | Ritual Howls (bandcamp.com)

ASSASSUN – Chronic Quicksand Depression Morning – Alexander is one of those infuriating brilliant humans who puts out such a vast amount of quality work I often wonder if he is a person or a fey. Not only is it always amazing, it is always vastly different and mind jarringly weird. I’ve never followed a stranger into an abandoned train station in Berlin in 1987 where 12 people in masks were playing abstract electronic brap music as a party performance piece. I have to imagine this would have been what it felt like and it is awesome. I think the most impressive aspect of this ambient mind goo is that it never feels pretentious. It should, but it never does.

Chronic Quicksand Depression Morning | ASSASSUN | Blackjack Illuminist Records (bandcamp.com)

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Witch Pop | CRUNE (bandcamp.com)

Jean-Marc Lederman– Soul Music For Zombies – Legendary Belgian composer Jean-Marc Lederman has an uncanny ability to constantly will into being something my heart had no idea it yearned for. A dark funky industrial blender on roller skates spinning under a disco ball. Frequent contributor Emileigh Rohn does another vocal contribution which soars and cascades with waterfall beauty. Diverse as the shades of human emotion. Jean-Marc spews forth brilliant concepts that need to be shown the light. Underappreciated in our scene doesn’t tell the whole tale.

Soul Music For Zombies | Jean-Marc Lederman (bandcamp.com)

Scorpion Tea – Scorpion Tea – Finally a band that is equal measure fresh on the scene, as well as brimming with OG street cred from drummer Edley ODowd (Psychic TV). Hard mean motorcycle revving skids on the floor of a condemned church. Untamed death rock with tube amp crunch and Raw Power sensuality. I expect 2024 to be a meteoric rise for the NYC band that could find a place in three different scenes.

Scorpion Tea | Scorpion Tea (bandcamp.com)