UK psych-punk stalwarts The Wytches return with 'Black Ice', the ferocious first single from their upcoming album 'Talking Machine', due out on the 10th October via Alcopop! Records.
'Talking Machine' draws thematic inspiration from Thomas Edison’s early gramophone demonstrations, events dubbed “Tone Tests,” where he would trick audiences into believing pre-recorded music was being played live. It’s a fitting lens for a record grappling with technological shifts, AI anxiety, and authenticity in the digital age.
Frontman Kristian Bell explains that 'Black Ice' was born from spinning old 7” records at a local record shop, falling in love with the trashy, heavy grit of bands like The Milkshakes and The Cannibals. “I remember playing ‘Till The End Of The Day’ by The Kinks,” says Bell. “It sounded heavier than modern metal. Black Ice was our first experiment with that — making something that blows your head off, but without relying on the usual studio tricks.”
Recorded entirely live, a first since their debut, 'Talking Machine' finds the band fusing their signature surf-punk riffs and dark psych energy with a new level of immediacy and bite. From pounding garage-rock to hushed, introspective moments, the album captures a band embracing imperfection and thriving in the chaos.
Have a listen to 'Black Ice' in the player and see the album's full tracklisting below.
'Talking Machine' Tracklist:
01. Talking Machine
02. Black Ice
03. Coffin Nails
04. Perform
05. Factory
06. Romance
07. Is The World Too Old?
08. Nothing To See
09. When The Obsession Began
10. Don't Make It For Me
11. Romance End
