Bewitched Members, Gear & Sound

Bewitched is a Swedish metal band that originated in 1995, distinguishing itself by embracing a retro thrash metal sound reminiscent of the early to mid-'80s. The band was founded by Vargher (Marcus Norman, vocals), Blackheim (Anders Nyström, guitar), Wrathyr (Kristofer Olivius, bass), and Reaper (drums). Bewitched's music is a unique blend of thrash, doom, speed, black, and drone metal, setting them apart from the more common Scandinavian metal trends. Despite initial lineup changes, with Blackheim leaving to focus on his other project Katatonia, Bewitched continued to evolve their aggressive and energetic style, bolstered by new members like Spider and Stormlord.

Bewitched's sound is characterized by its raw, aggressive guitar riffs and driving rhythms, evoking the intensity of early thrash metal. Their sonic palette is decidedly dirty and energetic, with a focus on speed and power, often delivered through high-gain amps like the Peavey 5150 120-Watt Head used by Anders Nyström. To achieve this gritty texture, the band employs distortion effects such as the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal, which contributes to their dense, powerful sound. The drums provide relentless, thunderous beats, enhancing the intense vibe, while the bass lines underpin the chaotic energy with a steady, forceful presence. Musicians aiming to replicate Bewitched's style should focus on crafting a sound that is both furious and nostalgic, harking back to the raw energy of 80's metal while maintaining a modern edge.