"Death Song" is the fifth studio album from The Black Angels, an American psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas. It was released on April 21, 2017, under the Partisan Records label. The album spans 11 tracks, including hits such as "Currency," "I'd Kill for Her," and "Half Believing." It represents a return to their rock 'n' roll roots and a reminder of how vital The Black Angels have been to the resurgence of psych rock over the past decade.
The release of "Death Song" marked the end of a four-year gap for The Black Angels, during which they had been largely out of the public eye. The album explores various themes from current societal issues to personal struggles. Several critics have highlighted the band's political consciousness and their insight into contemporary turmoil. "Death Song" was also the band's longest studio album at the time, pushing their dark, throbbing sound further than they had previously done.
The album's title is derived from the Velvet Underground's song "The Black Angel's Death Song." This is notable as the band, The Black Angels, got their name from this Velvet Underground's track, making this album a full-circle moment in their career.
"Death Song" was received warmly by critics and fans alike, garnering acclaim for its musically dense, socially conscious psychedelic rock. The band also went on a North American tour in support of the album's release in 2017. The album crystallizes their decade-long journey through the psychedelic rock landscape, demonstrating their maturity as musicians and their commitment to their genre.
