Tag: Witchhands

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

2024 Albums that are making people Love Goth again

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There is something special happening in darkscene music. This year I have been going to shows of new goth/post punk/darkwave bands and seeing them packed with young people who are embracing this subculture. Who are finding these themes and tones to make them their own. Twin Tribes, Actors, Vision Video, Then Comes Silence, Bootblacks, Male Tears, Leathers, Urban Heat, I Ya Toyah, touring the country telling folks it is good to be strange. This is the energy that is giving me hope. I have not been at my new goth pulpit as much as I like this year. As we pass the half way point of the year I will try and share what I have been listening to so far in 2024 that gives me hope for the future.

Dead Astronauts – Ghosts – The international synthwave group comprising Jared Kyle and Slade Templeton, has resurfaced with their highly anticipated 4th studio album, “Ghosts.” I love the experience and expertise on display for the art of songcraft. Each texture and shade are masterfully chosen. Honed with precision, displayed with technique. What truly makes them top tier is the narrative order, balance, and construction of every track.

Written and produced by Dead Astronauts
Mixed and Mastered at Influx Studios
Art and Design by JthreeConcepts

Mistakes: This track is deeply relatable. It has a beautiful Construction Time Again Depeche Mode bouncing beat with earnest reflection and buttery vocal delivery. A brief shimmering single that leaves you wanting more.

The Red Dress (feat. Florence Bullock): Beautiful city street flashing streetlamps streaking by at a furious pace. Wonderful vocal accents from A New York native, residing in Los Angeles, glitbiter, aka Florence Bullock. This track hugs the curves of a twisting road with a high performance engine. Perfect song to start an adventure to.

You try
To survive
Boy you’ve got clout
You’ve got your knives out
Trying to stay alive

Ghosts | Dead Astronauts (bandcamp.com)

Urban Heat – Seven Safe Places – The Austin TX band that has become an obsession for me. There is a special feeling when a band comes to a place beloved and familiar, but took an entirely different road to arrive. A punk rock vitality with soulful smooth edges and flawless technique. This was an April release single for the upcoming August album “The Tower”. Johnathan is one of the true distinctive voices in the modern darkscene. An energy and talent that would make any band shine. Combined in this trio powerhouse Urban Heat has distinguished themselves with the other A level artists of the next wave. This single has a Peter Hook lead guitar bassline that hugs every curve. The vocals are frantic and emotive. It’s a song built to gleam in the modern landscape. Become a true believer now and see Urban Heat out on tour, I assure you, the tickets will be more expensive and harder to find the next time around. Look for an interview with the band soon on youtube 🙂

Seven Safe Places | Urban Heat (bandcamp.com)

Tears for ʇhe Dying – In the Shadow of the Midnight Sun – I first saw the amazing emotional tidal wave of Adria and Tears for The Dying at Southern Gothic in Athen’s Georgia and was enraptured by the emotional impact and reckless truth of dynamic songwriting. Deathrock is a genre that traces it’s roots back several decades, so finding visionary new ground is no easy task. With slithering sinister concepts and vocal ingenuity TFTD pays reverent homage to Christian Death and Specimen while inserting modern elements and broader concepts like “Dead Girl Dancing” a gorgeous synth laden apocalypse pop anthem that steps outside of the box. This is one of those amazing bands that every artist in the scene respects deeply even if you have never heard them. A true inner circle talent.

Favorite Track: Kaiju – Slow big and full of destruction as the name implies. I love this winding guitar and tempo shift that allows Adria’s cadence and Mick’s rolling percussion to make dynamic stories of trampling feat and terrifying beasts.

Special mention: Jolene (Dolly Parton Cover) – It takes a special performance to take one of the greatest ballads of all time and make it your own. Everyone needs to give this a spin.

In the Shadow of the Midnight Sun | Tears for ʇhe Dying (bandcamp.com)

THEN COMES SILENCE – Trickery – Recently I got the extreme privilege of opening for Swedish based band Then Comes Silence on tour with Vision Video. I had reviewed them before. This was one of those bands you truly can’t fully appreciate until you have seen them live. I have witnessed so many impressive performances in the last five years, I hope you take to heart when I say this is the tightest, most energetic band I have witnessed in recent memory.

I used to have a joke that Rush was the greatest group of compiled musicians who’s album I didn’t want to buy. Not being my style. In the modern darkscene I think Then Comes Silence is the greatest group of compiled musicians who’s album I very much want to buy. Part of the elegance of Trickery is how it doesn’t sound like they set out to make a great post punk album. The cohesion, passion, and construction present here would have fit any genre or style just as easily. It just happened to come in one of my favorite forms.

The album has a wide range of sounds, lots of thunderous rock bangers where Jonas tom punishing drum accents make TCS stand out in a field of bands leaning towards electronic drums. Slippery shadow disco club tracks like Feel The Cold create contrast and highlight Alex rich broad beam vocals. Songs like the collaboration with Dusty “Stay Strange” bring a horror punk mod feel that ride Hugo’s wall of sound guitars. Whatever the tone, it always seems to land.

I would be hard pressed to choose any song on this album as a top track, Never Change was definitely one that crept up on me. Stellar underlying harmonies, a crackling backbeat that always hits on the outside of the synths. This whole record has an underlying tone of hope, rising out of the mire of tough times. This track captures that feeling the hardest for me.

Alex Svenson – vocals, bass and synthezisers
Jonas Fransson – drums
Hugo Zombie – guitars

Additional musicians:
Dusty Gannon (Vision Video)
Emma Nylén (Emmon)
Gözde Duzer (Aux Animaux)
Jörgen Wall (Whale, Thåström, among others)

This is a 10/10 album in contention for top 10 records of 2024.

Trickery | THEN COMES SILENCE (bandcamp.com)

Eva X – Fiction – July 5th single from Electronic producer Gaby (Eva X). The single includes two remixes of the previous single Dopamine Blind by Sawtooth and Enter Face. Retro 80s pop with soul on the intro, fed into the grinder of metal tooth electro rock. Gaby’s voice keeps growing in confidence and glamour with every new release. This would pop at a mainstream club or goth/Industrial night.

Fiction | Eva X (bandcamp.com)

Cemetery Sex – Leviathan – This is a young band generating an enormous amount of buzz from Washington DC. Artist that truly embrace the goth ethos of inclusion and counter culture pouring into the batcave of gothic roots. Anastasia has an undeniable presence in her words and delivery. The music is serpentine and hungry. To have young people with such an intrinsic understanding of the culture with both their music and mindset truly fills me with hope for the future. When Cemetary Sex burst onto the scene, they understood the assignment. Be ready to hear A LOT more about this band in the coming year.

Leviathan | Cemetery Sex (bandcamp.com)

PIG – Red Room – Raymond Watts has left an indelible stamp on the industrial scene for decades. One of the key reasons is his ability to find fresh untread ground with which to blend with industrial. Soul, funk, metal all are wound into spiritual inspiration to fortify the alloy of his art. Red Room took me to another place, late 70’s glam like Alice Cooper and TRex colliding pageantry, sensuality, and filthy grinding machines. A tight compact bullet that enters your brain before fragmenting into something larger and more explosive. Leaving you changed by the fragments left behind.

A rogues gallery of contributing artists, both old school and new class Alexis Mincolla (3Teeth), Chris Hall (Stabbing Westward), and the PIG Choir: Chris Connelly (Revco, Ministry etc), Emily Kavanaugh (Night Club), I Ya Toyah, Marc Heal (Cubanate) and Burton C Bell (Fear Factory), En Esch, Susannah Doyle, Anita Kyoda, Mark Alan Griffiths, Mike Watts, Jimmy Livingstone, and more!

This is an album best served live with sweat running down the walls. Catch them on tour with Curse Mackey, Unitcode:machine, Stoneburner, and more at a city near you. I’m going to both Coldwaves (Chicago) and Smalls (Detroit)

Favorite Tracks: Dirty Mercy – This opening is absolutely filthy.

Red Room | PIG (bandcamp.com)

ACTORS – Dead Inside – Vancouver based band Actors have been at the forefront of Nextwave Darkscene music since the start of the Rennaissance. This new single as a prelude to the tour of one of the top live music experiences of 2024 shows the group showing no signs of slowing down. The first time I heard it I was struck with Jason’s sultry whispering Jarvis Cocker vibes. of the cohesion and telepathy of one of the tightest acts of the modern era. The crisp brush crack drums Adam delivers use timing as art to build the tension. Shannon’s rippling cascade of dark water ripples. Kendall a forceful step on nimble feet. Every time I think, this is it, Actors have reached their peak, the journey continues up a mystical mountain.

Jason Corbett – Vocals + Guitar
Shannon Hemmett – Synth + Vocals
Kendall Wooding – Bass + Vocals
Adam Fink – Drums

Dead Inside | ACTORS (bandcamp.com)

MALE TEARS – Parad​í​sco – La Based neosynth band Male Tears has filled me with hope for the future. There is nothing more beautiful than a group of young people discovering a fresh path to classic sounds. James and company went through a major lineup transition before the release of this EP and came out the other side with a hopeful passion. Soulful new depth and determination to find the beauty in the darkest reflections of life. Fans of Petshop Boys, and Duran Duran will find an homage to bright crystal sounds on the sonic spectrum that hold the truth of dark introspection. Great guest appearance on track two by our friends Corlyx. A beautiful harmony of James mournful beauty and Caitlin’s alien ethereal whisper. As well as track 3 “Sex On Drugs” a gorgeous and heart retching single that could have been the missing track off (Actually 1987) with features Caitlin (Corlyx), Azy Bats (Obscura Undead), and Ryan King (Witchhands). This is a modern day classic that stirs my heart with that same feeling of unburdened delivery. Male Tears is something special and memorable this scene needs to embrace with both arms. They are currently on their first major tour and I encourage everyone to be a part of this revolution on the ground floor.

Catch them in Detroit 10/1/24 at Small’s in Detroit with Crune and yours truly 🙂

Paradísco | MALE TEARS (bandcamp.com)

Sounds and Shadows Top 20 Goth/Darkwave Albums of 2020

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What an amazing year for the Goth/Darkwave genre. A lot of fresh talent has come forth to leave their mark. In equal measure are long term veterans that have risen from the darkness to give new offerings. Our team took on the unenviable task of choosing the releases that moved us most. We are not including singles or compilations. These are not by any means every band I bought and loved in 2020 for goth. These are all bands that released an original album in the year 2020 that built a haunted house in the ruined graveyard of my head and I want to share with you now.

20) Raven Said – Beyond the Darkest Hour – My favorite of the amazing wealth of goth sounds coming out of Russia. This is a high energy shadow punk driving acid spit flavor of Misfits and Batcave. Andrey Agapitov vocals are sinister, fluid, and have a unique meter I am in love with. The guitar riffs are scorching. It keeps hitting different layers and hitting them hard. This album really shows how wide and beautiful this genre stretches.

https://ravensaid.bandcamp.com/album/beyond-the-darkest-hour

19) The Wake – PERFUMES AND FRIPPERIES – This is another band that has a lot of accomplishment under their belts. They really optimize what I think of as the Midwest goth sound. The guitars have this awesome fire feel, like molten splatters flying towards you. The vocals are mature and a have a rich quality. Lots of organic sounding drums that give a urgency. This is a noteworthy return for a band that has stood the test.

https://thewakeus.bandcamp.com/album/perfumes-and-fripperies

18) Rosetta Stone – Cryptology – So Rosetta Stone have been around for the long haul. They continue to put out exciting music and have been a staple in the genre. This album has a wonderful stripped down flavor. It makes it feel very intimate. “Valiant Try” is a straight up jam. I think what really captured me was that this was a familiar voice but they really peeled the mask off and gave you a look at a deeper layer.

https://rosettastoneuk.bandcamp.com/

17) WitchHands- Unto Death – Call it Death rock, Doom rock, Goth, ect. Just make sure to call it one of our top albums this year. Thick rumbling bass, slashing energy whip guitars. All called forth by Ryan’s mad carnival caller vocals. He spins tales with the conviction and charisma of a tent revival preacher. I think the biggest thing to hear is the massive step forward for their production levels so you can hear the power of every aspect. It’s glorious to behold and makes me want more WitchHands.

https://witchhandsdxr.bandcamp.com/album/unto-death

16) The Kentucky Vampire – Crimson Curse – Hailing from shockingly, Kentucky, here is another band that brings old school sinister pipe organ and fire bright guitar riffs. From Secret Sin records the tone and emotion of their 5 records is everything true fans of 80’s death rock long for. Abbas has a haunting voice full of chorus and foreboding. Brandon of Sonsombre does mastering for them and helps add a sense of continuity to this new goth sound. This record really highlighted the return of wicked guitar riffs in modern goth music.

https://thekentuckyvampires.bandcamp.com/album/crimson-curse

15) Astari Nite – Here Lies – This album has that captivating power of The Cure “Disintegration“. The music is like a tapestry woven before your eyes. The vocals are a heart cry that begs and pleads and owned me from the start. The guitar leads are a gorgeous second vocal melody that winds through the songs with an intricate voice of it’s own. This is more of the romantic aspect of goth music. Get ready to fall in a deep pool of meaning.

https://astarinitengp.bandcamp.com/album/here-lies

14) The Cult Sounds – The Cult Sounds – This was another pleasant surprise I got this year. Adrian got me into this band. The strength and range of the vocals here is astounding. I think the most amazing ability of this band was the ability to emote dynamics by changing the structure from verse to chorus. I love the retro power of a Black Sabbath power chorus back into a dreamy romantic goth style. You can really hear the ability of the musicians wielding their talent to maximum effect. I expect huge things for this band.

https://thecultsounds.bandcamp.com/album/the-cult-sounds-remixed-remastered

13) Pilgrims of Yearning – Forsaken Lands –

I have reviewed a few singles from the Boston witchy harvest dark rock. It’s striking and powerful, hints of Switchblade Symphony with a brighter flowing tang. Juls Garat has an angelic choir of a voice and gets offset by thunder rich basslines from Sean Woodbury. Claudio Marcio does a double duty on bonfire wall guitars and snapping drum sounds. I like the curt furious pace. This album was a long time coming and for an opening salvo it was really worth the wait. I love the Cure Standing on the Beach singles hectic jerk worldview to dark music. They really know how to strip it down and draw you in, then when they have you in the trap they spring the jaws. Favorite tracks: The Besieged , Bachanalia, and The Visitor.

The standard is set for a new force in dark rock music. This is a journey worth taking with a very mystical and stormy feel. They are on my new list of must follows for all future release.

https://pilgrimsofyearning.bandcamp.com/

12) Shadow Assembly – Arcane Fusion – The sophomore offering after their debut “Ghostcrawl” a twisted and brooding rock driven concoction. This new album opens the portal of darkness even further by using a different vocalist/lyricist for every track. This album is not only a prism of the wide varieties in modern gothic rock, but also a who’s who of the vocal talent of the current scene. I will act as your ferryman on the River Styx as I lead you through each track on this modern classic.

Overall this album is a synthesis of talent that really highlights what is possible when you have a maestro that knows and loves the music other artists make and finds a way to make each tone flow together to build something greater than the some of it’s parts. It is currently available on bandcamp for digital download and a CD run. If you want a good place to place your finger on the pulse of modern goth, this album is a great place to start.

https://shadowassembly.bandcamp.com/album/arcane-fusion

11) The Birthday Party Massacre – Diamonds – Look they are one of the biggest names in the modern genre and that’s for good reason. The gorgeous production pushes this towards darkpop (which is not a bad thing). It’s driving, passionate, and the drum builds and transitions are ungodly. This record feels like running through the darkest parts of Hogwarts. Yes it has a child like innocence about it, but at the same time a depth and soul. TBPM still have a lot of ground to cover in their journey.

https://thebirthdaymassacre.bandcamp.com/album/diamonds

10) Rosegarden Funeral Party – At The Stake – I have shockingly never reviewed an album from the Dallas TX traditional goth explosion. I’ve heard singles but never dove in head first and I’m not afraid to admit that was dumb. Sinister reverb guitars, blistering transitions, and laser strike vocals. Leah  is a force of raw untamed storm winds striking out at an unsuspecting world. It’s haunting and full of driving pop hooks. Consider me won, consider me a fan. Favorite tracks : Torture Decline, Fear of Feeling Nothing, Justification.

https://rosegardenfuneralparty.bandcamp.com/album/at-the-stake

9) Caroline Blind –The Spell Between – Caroline has been a mainstay for so long in this scene. Sunshine Blind “Liquid” was one of those albums that really showed me how much more the goth sound could be. This album features years of reflection and a power and beauty of delivery that makes me well up with emotion. The surrounding musicians she brought in to add depth and shading to the tracks are an all star list of talent. A powerful voice to remind us of the past and excite us for the future.

https://carolineblind.bandcamp.com/album/the-spell-between

8) SOPOR AETERNUS & The Ensemble Of Shadows – Island of the Dead – Honestly this is one of those bands I am embarrassed I didn’t already know about. I heard this on the Pat 626 show and I fell instantly in love. It’s dark, quirky, and utterly unique. It has a mystical and theatrical quality full of poetry and intensity. Brooding and whip crack sharp with hammer dulcimers and vocal deliver as sharp as a dagger. Music like this is my dark secret passion. More Harpsichords in goth NOW!

https://soporaeternus.bandcamp.com/album/island-of-the-dead-2020

7) Mary – Die Before Death – My newest goth obsession from Toronto. It is fast paced, spicy, with an old school New York feel. Strong sweeping vocals with a lot of depth and meaning. It also has a complete album feel with the sweeping tempo and dynamic shifts. Take me through the full range of emotions in one record. Another Cold Transmission signing. I expect big things in the future from him. This album is my sleeper pick of someone I was not familiar with before but will be heavily invested in ever future release.

https://maryofficial.bandcamp.com/album/die-before-death

6) A Covenant Of Thorns – Black -I have been waiting on this release for a long time. It’s what inspired me to write this piece. Scott-David Allen is a true master of this idea. He has been making songs of heart rending sadness and beauty for decades. I can honestly say this is an opus. The best I have heard yet. The production level here is next level with it’s Depeche Mode level darkpop and his amazing voice pushed to the front where it conveys a delicate yearning and sadness which is lost in the modern era. The whole record is a pilgrimage to the top of a mountain where he offers up his heart like a saint to the object of his love. The passion and idea are so raw but the mixing and song writing is done with a craft that shows the dedication such a personal offering deserves. YOU NEED THIS RECORD! (He screams from the rooftops)

Top Tracks: All of them…

but Numb – A gorgeous synthwave love poem full of hope and expression

Signs of Life – Damn it is hard to pick but this track is so crispy. Allen’s voice is everywhere on this one. The feeling cuts to deep and love lies at your feet. The chorus just opens up like a bird flying over the sea. It’s so bright and dark at the same time in perfect balance.

Choke – This one has a little more edge and sinister to it, but it is still yearning. Because sometimes a little kink can still be romantic.

https://acot.bandcamp.com/album/black

5) Black Angel – Kiss of Death – London UK artist Black Angel is putting the bat cave rock back into death rock. I feel so much of The Mission and later Sisters dancy flow to gothic rock. Their music reminds me so much of the goth club scene, swinging arms, leather and lace. Gothic music has always been tied to expression with the body, that is something Matt Vowel’s has grasp and fused into the future. The use of banging rock guitar riffs with a southern flare really created something fresh and memorable.

https://blackangelmusic.bandcamp.com/album/kiss-of-death

4) Crying Vessel – Pleasures For The Wicked – Slade and Basil also bringing that softer dark edge to gothic rock. Horror author Slade is integrating imagery of the macabre an sinister with a glam razamtaz feel. Gorgeous layered production and flange rich echo’s that simmer with Bowie and Love and Rockets. That special darkness you find on the edge of a rainbow after a storm. Available on Cleopatra Records.

https://cryingvessel.bandcamp.com/album/pleasures-for-the-wicked

3) Night Nail – March to Autumn – Two things made this album incredible for me. 1) The complexity. The layers, instrumentation, lyrics, it all has a depth to it that doesn’t seem to be the goal of a lot of darkwave. 2) How genuine it feels. I have interviewed Brandon and I know he is one of those rare souls that when I hear his music, I feel like who I am seeing is the exact person on the album. The album also has the rich treat of Valentina (VV and the Void) providing additional vocals and keys for contrast and perspective that adds shading and definition. This is an album to think to.

https://music.nightnail.com/

2) Iamtheshadow – Pitchblack – When I think of goth, I think of passion and vocals that capture a room. Lisbon Portugal’s IAMTHESHADOW does that in spades. Pedro Code has the best baritone in modern goth. It’s sexy, crooning, dangerous music that sounds like a full bodied red first touching your lips. It’s music to give yourself over and get lost in. Like the first time you heard Peter Murphy and thought this is the sound that encapsulates the image I want to see in the mirror. This album was a perfect bridge of the old school organic and the new school electronic. Like a chemist finding that perfect balance of styles. Now on Cold Transmission Music.

https://iamtheshadow.bandcamp.com/album/pitchblack-2

  1. 🙁

Witchhands: Unto Death

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There are times you just know. Something mystical about a good cover that seems to communicate something of the band, something about the album you are just about to listen to. Something just let’s you know you are about to hear something great.

https://witchhandsdxr.bandcamp.com/album/unto-death

Unto Death, the Colorado Springs band, Witchhand’s, 4th album is one of those albums. Where does one start to describe a work that is bound to become a classic filed somewhere between Christian Death‘s Catastrophe Ballet and T.S.O.L.’s Change Today? If you are into Death Rock, Goth Rock or Horror Punk, WitchHands has you. From the opening notes of the title track “Unto Death” through this four song journey’s end with “Dust (Dying of the Light),” this EP promises unrelentingly good, song after song. Trust me, I have listened to this possibly 30 times since I received a copy a couple of days before release, and it is now in my regular rotation. The crooning yells of singer Ryan’s strangely distant, yet hauntingly close vocals to Bryan’s thick thunderous drumming; The swirling dance of layers from Aaron’s screaming guitar, Josh’s driving bass and the steady ethereal keyboard work of Lance, this is a classic waiting to be recognized. The production has cleaned up and improved drastically from their previous releases, but still feels raw, reminiscent of proto death rock greats, creating a perfect balance. Unto Death is bound to find a permanent place in the collections of DJs, fans and audiophiles everywhere

Unto Death: From the first time I heard Witchands, I fell in love with the lofi sound. The gutter growl doom rock cheese. I worried the clear driving production level would kill that effect. It does not. It’s more of that energy but with laser beam precision. It’s a finer articulation, a focus to Ryan’s voice. A blend of guitar, drum and lyrics that opens the sanctum and makes you the sacrifice of this ritual. I’m still wandering through a foggy graveyard on a full moon, but the stars are clear enough to read the gravestones.

Neurenberg (Dying of the Light): We’ve brought up the tempo, and Bryan’s thundering tom fills create a languid ritual cascade. The clarity of running up a tight spiral staircase of climbing scales as the punctuating guitars weave a twisting dancer’s cadence. Lance’s vocals punch in with a newfound sense of emergency, capturing with their high energy.

*Mortification: This is our favorite track. Tribal drum rolls open, three unlicensed nuclear accelerators firing plasma at a spectre across a New York ballroom. Ryan’s voice unleashes such an intensity and urgency, his biology exploding through his vocal chords.

Dust (Dying of the Light): Closing track unleashes a thick and driving baseline. Again capturing that break neck speed and rum fills that kilter on the razor edge between doom rock and metal. This is a song of a desolate landscape, zombie truckers in the 1970’s driving through the desert huffed up on memories and formaldehyde.

The Next Wave of Goth Is Now

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Goth music and culture has always been rooted firmly in the past. It often has felt this subculture awards time served in the scene and knowledge of the obscure history of the bands, clubs, and fashion of our progenitors. However in order for a culture to carry on it must evolve and strike a chord in future generations. This happened in the 90s, then again in the mid 2000’s as new waves of goth music found and audience. Each time adding to the story by paying homage to the generations before it. As time went on “Goth” has splintered into smaller subgenres which have pushed further from that original concept until a tangled and complex web reached towards the edges of other genres. I for one embrace how rich and diverse the concept of goth culture has become. In future articles I want to explore some of these subgenres and how they are impacting modern music. In this article I will be focusing on the return to the core. That first idea of guitar driven dark music, with throbbing basslines, ethereal keyboards, and haunted lyrics with romantic natures.

1st Wave: The Velvet Underground, Joy Division, Siouxsie and The Banshees, Killing Joke, Bauhaus, The Cure, Sisters of Mercy, The Birthday Party, Red Lorry Yellow Lorry, Fields of the Nephilim, The Mission, Christian Death, Alien Sex Fiend.

2nd Wave: Rosetta Stone, Nosferatu, The Wake, Children On Stun, Dead Can Dance, Lycia

3rd Wave: Angels of Liberty, Merciful Nuns, Switchblade Symphony, O’Children, Ritual Howls, Pink Turns Blue, The Horrors, Sunshine Blind, Golden Apes, Black Tape For a Blue Girl, Razed In Black.

Finally a new slew of darklings is raising that torch and producing the next wave of goth rock. I think it is key that these are bands who came up listening to the post synthesis goth and found their way back to the root. It gets me excited for the future.

The Kentucky Vampires: Hailing from shockingly, Kentucky, here is another band that brings old school sinister pipe organ and fire bright guitar riffs. From Secret Sin records the tone and emotion of their 5 records is everything true fans of 80’s death rock long for. Abbas has a haunting voice full of chorus and foreboding.

https://thekentuckyvampires.bandcamp.com/album/crimson-curse

Scary Black: Another amazing new goth act from Louisville KY. What the hell is in the water out there. This is a one person band that has such electric energy and frightening tone. Singer Albie has one of those deep baritone voices that comes from the bottom of a well and fills you up with emotion. 3 albums and the napalm fire single Starlight Dancer.

https://scaryblack.bandcamp.com/album/are-you-afraid-of-the-dark

Twin Tribes: These lovely lads from Texas have taken the world by storm. Dreamy private ritual sounds that bring the beauty and heartbeat of The Cure back into the mainstream. Tender poetry and swirling texture smoldering in a cauldron on a moonlit night. Already with two breakout albums and additional singles they are setting the standard for the softer side of gothic rock.

https://twintribes.bandcamp.com/album/ceremony

Black Angel: London UK artist Black Angel is putting the bat cave rock back into death rock. I feel so much of The Mission and later Sisters dancy flow to gothic rock. Their music reminds me so much of the goth club scene, swinging arms, leather and lace. Gothic music has always been tied to expression with the body, that is something Matt Vowel’s has grasp and fused into the future.

https://blackangelmusic.bandcamp.com/album/kiss-of-death

IAMTHESHADOW: When I think of goth, I think of passion and vocals that capture a room. Lisbon Portugal’s IAMTHESHADOW does that in spades. Pedro Code has the best baritone in modern goth. It’s sexy, crooning, dangerous music that sounds like a full bodied red first touching your lips. It’s music to give yourself over and get lost in. Like the first time you heard Peter Murphy and thought this is the sound that encapsulates the image i want to see in the mirror. Now on Cold Transmission Music.

https://iamtheshadow.bandcamp.com/album/pitchblack-2

Cliff and Ivy: Alaska’s favorite goth couple Cliff and Ivy have brought back the isolated howling wolf tooth and nail of goth. The punk blend of The Damned and Alien Sex Fiend. It’s raw, fierce, and unapologetic. Ivy takes the back of your head with her beautiful prose, then smashes your nose with a headbutt of power. Cliffs thick guitar riffs are a growling beast let off the chain. Iron Gauntlet in a velvet glove.

https://cliffandivy.bandcamp.com/album/the-best-of-cliff-and-ivy

Crying Vessel: Slade and Basil also bringing that softer dark edge to gothic rock. Horror author Slade is integrating imagery of the macabre an sinister with a glam razamtaz feel. Gorgeous layered production and flange rich echo’s that simmer with Bowie and Love and Rockets. That special darkness you find on the edge of a rainbow after a storm. Available on Cleopatra Records.

https://cryingvessel.bandcamp.com/album/pleasures-for-the-wicked

Mary: My newest goth obsession from Toronto. It is fast paced, spicy, with an old school New York feel. Strong sweeping vocals with a lot of depth and meaning. It also has a complete album feel with the sweeping tempo and dynamic shifts. Take me through the full range of emotions in one record. Another Cold Transmission signing. I expect big things in the future from him.

https://maryofficial.bandcamp.com/album/die-before-death

Death Loves Veronica: This lovely lady from Texas brings that same Souxie dripping soul and witchcraft elegance to modern goth. It’s smoky and pours straight from the vein into your ears. Really nice use of guitar to add weight in the right moments. Goth needs to echo through the listener on a personal level. You need to feel what they feel and that is what Veronica captures so elegantly.

https://deathlovesveronica.bandcamp.com/album/in-the-silence

Sounds Like Winter: All the way from Australia Art Banister’s popping sharp edge retro feel goth rock has a lot of that true early Joy Division/Warsaw vibe in the drum and tempo. The vocals are forceful and ringing in a hopeless monotone. All that fuzz and emptiness given flesh.

https://sounds-like-winter.bandcamp.com/album/no-interest-single

Adoration Destroyed: Also from Texas this band is leather pants sexy in musical form. Masters of blending modern pop and old school shadow shock. It’s animalistic and winding with crackling electric dance destruction. Erik has a voice that calls to you come hither and has a 10/10 on the shake that ass factor.

https://adorationdestroyed.bandcamp.com/

Orcus Nullify: The doom and shattering gothic rock sound and poetry unafraid to lean into the cheese and imagery of early goth. Thunderous bass driven rock about bog witches and grave dirt. I love the courage and delivery of this South Carolina sensation

Witchhands: Colorado doom metal with raw open wound sounds full of decay and ritual. That place where early goth rock stayed into metal and pain. Spewing forth a filth and blood soaked pageantry with blistering guitars mashed with organs and echos.

Redwing Blackbird: Another Colorado band with blistering speed and The Damned edge punk feel mixed with true goth sensibility. This album picked me up when i am feeling low…and then sends me low again. Great production and electric tempo.

https://redwingblackbird1.bandcamp.com/album/too-klaus-for-comfort

Amaranth: Ken, do you have the strength of character to not engage in shameless self promotion and include yourself with this wave of goth bands? Fuck No! I feel good about the music we have made coming back. It veers from old school to proggoth/ to industrial but fuck it, it’s good. Give it a listen 🙂

https://theamaranth.bandcamp.com/album/spreading-the-charred-remains-of-hope

BRIDES – Newest project from Adrian Borgia of Norway usually known for his lovely crafting with analog synths which really finds it’s stride by blending old school death rock with bleak emotion and infectious pacing.

▶︎ If Love Was A Colour | BRIDES (bandcamp.com)

NIGHT NAIL – American transplants in Berlin Germany newly signed to Metropolis Records. Night Nail is a complex abstract take on modern goth with experimental instrumentation and wonderful vocal harmonies between partners Brandon and Valentina. Hues of Japan under a cloud of extreme darkness, Night Nail is never afraid to take chances in the pursuit of new sounds.

Fates Explained | NIGHT NAIL (bandcamp.com)

Ashes Fallen – California doom rockers with a punk rock political courage and a LA glam. This band puts the ROCK, back into Gothic Rock.

Walk Through Fire | Ashes Fallen (bandcamp.com)

Double Eyelid – Canadian Dj and songsmith Ian Revell leads this synthpop goth hybrid with a tongue and cheek gallows humor and infectious hooks.

Better Than You Were | Double Eyelid (bandcamp.com)

Mark E Moon – Glorious tradgoth meets death disco from the Isle of Man. Like throwing Ultravox and the Sisters of Mercy in a blender.

Daemons | Mark E Moon (bandcamp.com)

Hueco – Sinister nightmare theatrical goth from Mexico City. A criminally underrated scene bosting intriguing and distinct goth.

▶︎ Canciones de Oscuridad y Desaliento | Hueco (bandcamp.com)

MALE TEARS – James Edward‘s project from Los Angelos briming with pop goth beats and seeping with authenticity. Blending retro emotion and modern production. I love it more every time I hear it.

delete this conversation | MALE TEARS (bandcamp.com)

I also wanted to call out a few bands that rose from the grave to join the modern scene but have been making music all along 🙂

Caroline Blind: The stunning voice from Sunshine Blind has returned to cut an amazing solo album. Bringing in a who’s who from third wave goth to accompany her on this soulful and rich goth endeavor with a more organic feel. Her voice grabs hold of the heart strings and rides your into the ground. Breathtaking music contributions from Rich W. (The Wake), David Wolfenden (Red Lorry Yellow Lorry), Dave (The Dramedy), Ashe Ruppe (Delphine Coma), George Earth (Switchblade Symphony), Gordon Young (Pretentious Moi, Dream Disciples, Children on Stun), CWHK (Sunshine Blind), William Faith (Bellwether Syndicate, Faith and the Muse) and Geoff Bruce (Sunshine Blind, Faith and the Muse). Everyone who shows up hear really shows the impact of this artist on the scene and how much power this newest release packs.

https://carolineblind.bandcamp.com/album/the-spell-between

The Wake: Speaking of The Wake, they have just unleashed a new album in 2020 and it is game changing outstanding. This record is going to get it’s own review but to not mention the power of this release would be an oversight. Such a sky opening laser of guitar beams interlaced with velvet smooth vocals and a canopy of bass to hold it inside. My breath is taken.

The Cassandra Complex: Rodney Orpheus of London’s Cassandra Complex has been keeping the goth sound alive for years. A tantalizing and sinister painting of sound with the history of human experience brought shining and new with each release. Recently on bandcamp he put out some remasters of those lovely goth anthems back into the light. A true crooner of the poetic experience of early goth music who actually toured with the early progenitors.

https://thecassandracomplex.bandcamp.com/album/wetware-2019-remaster

I didn’t come close to hitting everything, and with facebook now stopping videos, lists like this on our page might be the best bet for a full playlist of new music. So If I missed something you feel meets the requirement of guitar based goth made in the last 4 years. Please add in the comments and I will try and get it included. Much love, Precious Ken.