What makes Death Song by The Black Angels notable?

The album received critical acclaim, with many reviewers highlighting its cohesive sound and lyrical depth. It debuted at number 4 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart and solidified The Black Angels' influence in contemporary psychedelic rock, inspiring a new generation of artists exploring similar themes. Death Song marked The Black Angels' fourth studio album, following their 2013 release, Indigo Meadow. At this point, the band had solidified their reputation within the psychedelic rock scene, showcasing their ability to evolve while maintaining their signature sound. This album was released after a brief hiatus, suggesting a period of reflection and artistic growth for the group.

Who is Death Song for?

Death Song works well if you're into steady mid-tempo exploration, haunting soundscapes for introspection and existential themes throughout tracks.

How many songs are on Death Song?

Death Song has 11 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Death Song

The Black Angels · 2017

48 min · 11 tracks · psychedelic rock

A swirling blend of dark psychedelia and haunting melodies that evoke a sense of existential dread and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Currency — The opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its driving rhythm and atmospheric layers, encapsulating the band's signature sound.
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I’d Kill for Her — This track features a captivating narrative combined with hypnotic instrumentation, showcasing the band's lyrical prowess and emotional intensity.
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Death March — With its ominous title and brooding instrumentation, this song exemplifies the darker themes present throughout the album, creating a sense of urgency and foreboding.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and cohesive sound, with moments of introspection and tension.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth introduces a more expansive sound with layered instrumentation.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that build tension before resolving into melodic choruses.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually slow down, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo exploration
haunting soundscapes for introspection
existential themes throughout tracks
immersive listening experience
late-night reflective sessions

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer upbeat party vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Death Song marked The Black Angels' fourth studio album, following their 2013 release, Indigo Meadow. At this point, the band had solidified their reputation within the psychedelic rock scene, showcasing their ability to evolve while maintaining their signature sound. This album was released after a brief hiatus, suggesting a period of reflection and artistic growth for the group.
Stylistic neighbors: The Brian Jonestown Massacre· Spiritualized· Tame Impala