BEWITCHER: Confronting Shadows: The Power and Intensity of Spell Shock

In this interview, Bewitcher delves into the raw energy and primal essence behind Spell Shock, an album that captures their signature blend of blackened speed metal with visceral intensity. They discuss the catharsis of exploring the shadow self—»a frightening prospect, but necessary to fully understand the complete self»—and the relentless effort behind their art, both sonically and visually.

From the influence of ancient musical roots to the weight of creative pressure in the studio, Bewitcher shares insights into their creative journey and the themes of defiance, power, and personal growth that permeate their music. With Spell Shock, what you see—or hear—is pure, unfiltered rage and energy.

-Hi, first off thanks for answering to our questions. How’s everything doing in the lair of Bewitcher?

Still alive and kickin after close to 100 shows in North America and Europe this year. Taking a little down time before doing it all over again in 2025.

– The title Spell Shock evokes imagery of magic and power. Does this title reflect a specific moment or personal transformation for you as a band or as individuals?

It’s just an album title. It sums up the totality of the content of the record and what we do in general. The title track is more or less the centerpiece of the record, so it just made sense to make it the namesake. People can take it to mean whatever they wish, but at the end of the day, it’s always meant to encapsulate the overall vibe of the record.

– Bewitcher’s sound has always been raw and intense. Do you see your music as a way to confront personal fears or inner conflicts? How has that evolved on Spell Shock?

Music and performance is always a cathartic experience, and with this type of music you have a lot of turmoil, anger and other emotions that are being exorcized in the process. It can be very draining, to the point where there’s nothing left to give. It becomes more challenging to manifest that kind of energy as time goes on.

– Your music blends blackened speed metal with an almost ritualistic energy. Does this “ritual” aspect of your sound mirror any spiritual or personal practices in your life?

Not really. Nowadays, it’s more about telling stories with music and words than giving some grand insight into any personal spiritual beliefs or practices. That is not for the world to know about.

– On Spell Shock, tracks like “Starfire Maelstrom” are packed with energy. Do you channel specific emotions or experiences when writing and performing such high-intensity music?

It’s pretty second-nature at this point. I can’t imagine a Bewitcher album or song that doesn’t carry a great deal of energy and intensity.

– With Spell Shock, what personal themes or emotions are you exploring that fans might not immediately pick up on amidst the aggression and intensity of the music?

What you see (or hear) is what you get. We put what we had into this record, but it’s up to the listener to pull out what they can from it. Everyone interprets art their own way, so I’m not going to tell people what to look or listen for.

– Your music has a timeless, primal feel, especially on this album. Do you ever feel like you’re tapping into something ancient or otherworldly when creating your sound?

Of course. Music itself is ancient and otherworldly, is it not?

– How does the Pacific Northwest’s music scene or its landscapes influenced your creative process for Spell Shock? Is there something unique about your environment that seeps into your music?

Sometimes, but it’s not something I draw from regularly. The weather and geography certainly provides inspiration from time to time. Usually more through osmosis than through anything intentional.

– Black and speed metal are genres that often tread dark territory. For you, is this exploration of darkness cathartic, or do you view it as more of an artistic expression of power and defiance?

One of the major themes or messages of the band has always been to explore the shadow self, the darker side that most people are afraid to take an honest look at. It can be a frightening prospect, but necessary to fully understand the complete self.

– The visual aesthetic of Spell Shock is striking. How closely do you involve yourselves in the visual representation of your music, and does it hold personal meaning for the band?

We are 100% involved. Every concept, every piece of art is carefully considered, because this is as much a visual artform as it is an audible one. Anything you put that much time into always holds some personal meaning.

– Looking back on the making of Spell Shock, are there any pivotal moments or decisions that pushed you into new creative territory as a band? How personal was that growth?

We always aspire to push ourselves creatively and challenge ourselves as much as possible. Having a bunch of Bay Area legends in the studio with us seemingly at all times meant that we really had to be at the top of our game. That kind of pressure forces personal and professional growth upon you.

-And before we wrap this interview up; what are now your near-future plans?

Probably just to keep touring until we drop fucking dead.

-That’s all from our side. Thanks again for answering to these questions. If you’d like to add some final words; it’s your turn.

Thanks for the time, we’ll see you all out there! Cheers ya fuckerzz.