Back in the old days when record shops weren’t shrouded in neon, you would venture downstairs into a darkened musty basement past the walls plastered in flyers and peruse the racks looking for gold. You would find an album from a band you have never heard of, yet you are drawn to it inexplicably, from its cover or idea or … something. You take it home and play it in the evening when the atmosphere is best, and it would blow you away. Completely and utterly 4.44 by Satanic Witch is such an album.
4.44 conjures images of musicians making pacts over candles, their mystery only adding to the allure and romanticism. The uninhibited freedom and the deft hand in which they create their music surprise you and make you wonder why you have never heard of them before. In Satanic Witches cases 4.44 is their debut album and it is a combination of sixties, and seventies experimentalism, combined with black metal, post flourishes and beautiful melodies that is rich textured and organic.
It is dark and authentically so; it is the lack of pretension that makes the covenant between artist and listener intimate and expressive. Each track is a lengthy naturally occurring exploration of the ritual. From the duality of the incredible ‘’Mirage/Die Hexen’’, to the blasting black metal indulgence that is ‘’For None’’. The riffs are majestic, free flowing and incredibly heavy, yet it is also full of haunting darkness. ‘’So below’ is the hypnotic nightmare created from the simplest of melodies and the whispered vocals. The beautifully sung melodies are the tautology to the darkness, each creation unique and a testament to the creators Shaun Van Calster (Length of Time), Michel Kirby (Wolvennest), Isa and Selina (E-L-R), that Satanic Witch is such a pleasure whilst being shrouded in secrecy and spiritual connections. It is the expression of music and its true power that makes 4.44 a complete experience with moments of greatness.
Elusive inexplicable and alluring 4.44 is a staggering release that combines elegance and darkness to create a musical journey that is genuinely exciting. Combining the greatness of modern with seventies inspired freedom and originality, 4.44 is a masterwork.
Satanic Witch: Facebook
Release Year: 2023
Label: Ván Records
Category: Album
Country: Belgium/Switzerland
Reviewed by Sparky
