The enigmatic GothBoiClique co-founder and Misery Club member’s latest track indicates the dawning of a new era
Photo by Nathan Copes.
The early 2019 release of Suffer On, the sophomore LP from Scranton, Pennsylvania goth icon Wicca Phase Springs Eternal, echoes out as the culmination of years worth of yearning desires and selfish sentiments crafted into numerous masterpieces. Thematically desolate and downcast, the record’s wistful tones encapsulate the signature gloomy soundscape that has carved out a legacy amongst the alternative rap scene for the former Tigers Jaw frontman. Turning the page, Wicca Phase is back to present his latest single “Hardcore,” – a hard-hitting contrast to this heavy-hearted ambiance, complete with a cryptic VHS style music video to match.
Production from Australian producer/songwriter Darcy Baylis sees the aptly-named track embrace the spirit of Adam’s punk rock roots. Grunge/nu metal style guitar loops compose a solid base for a rebellious anthem that serves as a signal of intent for future Wicca Phase releases. While maintaining lyrical vulnerability, there is a rough edge to Wicca Phase’s musings, with shades of steely determination resonating through the hook: “Never look backward, never say sorry.” The rattle of hi-hats synonymous with the crystalline sound utilized by GBC ring out vigorously as Wicca Phase charges through the gears with a flow unmatched. Unburdened from past melodrama, “Hardcore” is a mantra of tangible desires and demands that are ready to be unveiled.
In the accompanying music video, shot by Pennsylvania-based videographer LITTLEADAM, sinister visuals cast McIlwee as a wraith-like figure, moving rhythmically to the track in trance-like fashion. Occult symbolism and shadowy scenes engulfed in the darkness epitomize the supernatural aura that Wicca Phase cultivates. A backdrop depicting the Black Cube is displayed in time with the line “Sigils I cast, I swear I cast you.” In similar fashion to older single “Rest,” visuals for “Hardcore” are dressed in static interruption. Staticity may have been an allusion to the conflicted feelings explored in his lyricism, but the only sign of distress conveyed now is a chaotic trail of erratic emotions that Wicca Phase is leaving behind as he advances to pastures new with unflinching purpose.