The Bell Witch Band: A Uniquely Haunted Sound
If you're a fan of doom metal, you've probably heard of the Bell Witch band. This Seattle-based duo is known for their heavy, atmospheric music, which is heavily influenced by the legend of the Bell Witch, a spirit that reportedly haunted the Bell family in Tennessee in the early 1800s. But what sets the Bell Witch band apart from other doom metal acts is their unique approach to incorporating the haunting tale into their music.
The Bell Witch band was formed in 2010 by bassist/vocalist Dylan Desmond and drummer Adrian Guerra. The two met while attending a music school in Seattle and bonded over their shared love of doom metal and the legend of the Bell Witch. They soon began working on their own music, incorporating elements of the legend into their sound and lyrics. The result was a haunting, atmospheric sound that quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike.
One of the things that sets the Bell Witch band apart is their use of long, slow-building songs to create a sense of dread and unease. Their debut album, Longing, which was released in 2012, featured three epic tracks that clocked in at over 15 minutes each. These tracks, "Beneath the Mask," "Longing," and "Out of Time," are all inspired by the legend of the Bell Witch and feature haunting melodies and lyrics that tell the story of the spirit's hauntings.
Another unique aspect of the Bell Witch band's sound is their use of extended techniques in their instrumentation. Bassist Dylan Desmond is known for his use of open-tunings, slide guitar, and alternate picking techniques to create a dark, eerie sound. Drummer Adrian Guerra also employs extended techniques, such as using two bass drums and playing with his hands, to create a deep, primal rhythm.
In addition to their music, the Bell Witch band also incorporates elements of the legend into their live performances. They often perform in dark, candlelit rooms to create a creepy atmosphere, and they sometimes use recorded samples of voices and other eerie sounds to enhance the experience. The result is a live show that is both musically and visually captivating.