Archived announcements from XLI A.S.
Go to archived News XXXIV A.S.
Go to archived News XXXV A.S.
Go to archived News XXXVI A.S.
Go to archived News XXXVII A.S.
Go to archived News XXXVIII A.S.
Go to archived News XXXIX A.S.
Go to archived News XL A.S.
Go to archived News XLII A.S.
Go to News XLIII A.S.
31 December, XLI A.S.:
Happiest of New Years!
Tomorrow begins year XLII, Anno Satanas. Many projects now in progress will be unleashed and we are proud to say that it will be a year of significant literature. Several fine books are due to make their impact, demonstrating the lasting power of the philosophical foundation created by Anton Szandor LaVey and the capabilities of our leading members to build solidly upon this bedrock.
XLI proved to be an important year for our current phase of Elaboration, and it was climaxed by the performance of The Satanic High Mass in the City of Lost Angels on 6-6-06. The world watched; the God-adorers trembled. The jaded pundits who had predicted the fading of the Church of Satan after the death of our founder were shown how very wrong they were. His personal allies have maintained his high standards and keep this juggernaut on course. We now have a greater reach world wide than at any previous point in our history, and our ranks continue to swell with our fellow tribesmen of brilliance and discipline from just about every nation on this globe. It is a glorious time to be a Satanist.
The Church of Satan is not a building, not a myth, not a legend. It is a potent cabal of productive personages, fully aware of their carnal nature and celebrating their animal majesty under the aegis of the ineffable archetype so feared by the spiritual. Satan is our essence, our coat of arms, our standard—the symbol that is given vitality by each and every true Satanist. Hail to all of us—the Church of Satan! Our strength is maintained through our joy in life, demonstrating the viability of our perspective as one truly fulfilling to the Children of the Night.
We are proud to raise our glasses to our Comrades in Darkness in celebration of the advent of another Indulgent New Year:
“Here’s to champagne for our real friends,
and real pain for our sham friends!”Joy to the flesh—forever!
Shemhamforash! Hail Satan!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore
Magistra Peggy Nadramia
Magistra Blanche Barton
21 December, XLI A.S.:
A “Superlative Solstice!” to true Satanists the world over.
The image above, The Original, appeared in The Cloven Hoof, Volume XII, #6, 1980 c.e.,
and it is copyrighted © by the Church of Satan and may not be reproduced without permission.As has become our tradition, we invite you to click on the image above to embrace the “Old Gent’s” evocation of this primordial holiday, the name of which has been usurped by that late-coming pallid Nazarene.
Today we mark the seasonal change and revive the indulgent feasting of the ancient pagan Roman Saturnalia; as the song says, “Give me that old-time religion!” Fellow Epicureans, share your abundant joy in life with those who enrich you. The Earth and its myriad pleasures is forever our domain!
Hail Satan!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore
Magistra Peggy Nadramia
Magistra Blanche Barton
MAGICK MIND
On Wednesday, December 13 (scroll down to the proper entry), Magistra Barton had a delightful time with Ed Craft and co-host Julia Cole on Magick Mind Paranormal Talk Radio. The discussion featured discussions of the holiday season, contemporary neo-pagans, Anton Szandor LaVey as well as Satanic witchery as a feminine perspective on Satanism. Visit their web site to download the show, and you will also find some earlier episodes featuring our High Priest in their archive.
Dr. Mark Birnbaum: Cool Piano
Maestro Birnbaum presents a potent program displaying his virtuosity as well as his extraordinarily heartfelt interpretive skills. He has mastered the idioms of Joplin, Debussy, and Scriabin—a rare feat, and here he has selected pieces that well complement each other. His Joplin is earthy, detailed and playful, projecting a thoroughly carnal love of life. In the Debussy works, Birnbaum captures his impressionism with a painterly touch, from the majesty of the “Sunken Cathedral” to the piquant vista of “Reverie.” He evokes that surging sense of decadence and diablerie so essential to Scriabin including the dissonant “Sonata #9” (Black Mass) and the mysterious tremolo-infused “Sonata #10” (Insect Sonata).
The recording is excellent, miked close enough to capture plenty of detail yet with enough room reverberation to allow the sonorities evoked to resonate without obscuring the musical lines. Whether you are a longtime listener to masters of pianism or someone new to this form of music, this album will serve you well, seducing you to listen again and again. Click on the album cover above to visit Dr. Birnbaum’s site for ordering details, or visit Amazon.com.
The Devil’s Gain is an online magazine created by Church of Satan members who participate in the Compendium Rerum Necessarium Special Interest Group. Personal responsibility and drive for success are common traits for the Satanist, and thereby many find themselves in pursuit of real-world success. This website is a resource for those individuals, and aims to share and encourage prosperity through the presentation of tools and articles to help Satanists reach their goals.
To begin are interviews with Magistra DeMagis, exploring ideas of defining and attaining goals, and sCara, who created a company to market soaps, scents, and incense called FeMaledictions. Articles by Jan Welke cover the acquisition of money as well as the imagination as a means for protection. An essay by Linguascelesta provides tips for success in an office arena. There is more and there will be much to come, so click on the image above to explore this new resource.
FeMaledictions presents Krampus Ornaments
Presented for your consideration—Handmade Olde World-Style Krampus Ornaments!
Each set is comprised of three ornaments: Krampus’ head, cone “body” and well-worn switches! When you put them all together, you get a Krampus!
Each set is an assemblage of papier-mâché, paper pulp, satin ribbon, beaded fringe, maribou, bark wire and shimmering acrylics. No molds were used. The ornament in each set is a small work of art unto itself.
This is the first of what will be many artistic collaborations between Church of Satan Members Butch & Sara Rung.
Each set is limited in edition, numbered & gift-boxed. Available only at FeMaledictions.com!
The Ninth Gate Magazine Issue #1
Eric Vernor has launched a new magazine which will be published bi-annually, on April 30th and Halloween. Essentially it explores a contemporary Gothic aesthetic. This debut issue includes articles from author Michelle Belanger on Retribution Magic and Church of Satan Warlock Bill M. discussing Satanic Ritual. There are interviews with artists Joseph Vargo and Buzz of Buzzworks as well as bands URN and Bella Morte. Gothic Pagan Raven Digitalis talks about a new book to be released by Llewellyn, and there is a look at “darkside” fashion with Kambriel , Heavy Red and model G’ashley D’arcane. And there is more!
Click on this link to order your copy now. For mail order send a check or money order made out to Eric Vernor in the amount of $8.00 ($6.00 plus S & H) to the address below:
The Ninth Gate Magazine
c/o Eric Vernor
P.O. Box 11496
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46858-1496
John Hodgman: The Areas of My Expertise
Now in Audiobook Format
Hodgman’s entertaining volume (which we’d mentioned upon its initial release) is now available as a free download (for a limited time) on the iTunes store for any who have an account there. The author narrates this presentation. If you have seen those Apple commercials with the PC guy on the left and the Apple guy on the right, Hodgman plays the always amusing PC guy.
Click on the cover for the link. You deserve a Solstice present!
8 December, XLI A.S.:
—In Memoriam—
JACK PALANCE
February 18, 1919—November 10, 2006
Jack was one of the great Hollywood heavies with a long career that gave him space to display his ability to shine as an avatar of the sinister whenever a camera was pointed at his remarkable face. Satanists will particularly enjoy his performances as Dracula and then as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in the Dan Curtis adaptations of those classic novels. He was perfectly brutal as Attila the Hun in “Sign of the Pagan,” and even more enjoyable as the Anti-Christ sorcerer Simon Magus in that truly kooky film “The Silver Chalice.” He even played a monk in Jess Franco’s adaptation of the Marquis de Sades’s Justine. He will be greatly missed, and shall live on through his darkly brilliant portrayals.
BASIL POLEDOURIS
August 21, 1945—November 8, 2006
Maestro Poledouris was a film composer of talent and depth who could write music with great emotional range that was always perfect for the imagery he accompanied on the silver screen. His scores for “Red Dawn,” “Starship Troopers,” “RoboCop,” and “The Hunt for Red October” are all rousing gems, but my favorite is his masterpiece written for the John Milius film “Conan the Barbarian.” Milius’ script and direction captured the Nietzschean essence of Robert E. Howard’s character, and Poledouris wrought an extraordinarily rich score to support the breadth of this epic portrayal. There are moments of terror and triumph, tenderness and mayhem, and all unmistakably by his hand. I am always delighted whenever I listen to this work, and I suggest you seek it out as many of the tracks are also suitable for use in ritual as well as just being inspiring music.
Darkhaus Sampler DVD
DARKHAUS
sound&film, inc.
P.O.Box 2330
Bay City, MI
48707 USA
www.thedarkhaus.com
(989) 493-2109
"EMBRACE YOUR INNER DARKNESS"
Mexican Vampire Classics!
CASA NEGRA Entertainment Presents
Casa Negra reaches new heights with a double DVD set presenting the saga of Count Lavud. Once again, the transfers are excellent, preserving the wonderfully gothic atmosphere so deftly conjured via the sets, lighting, and cinematography. Kudos to director Fernando Méndez! Both films take their inspiration from the Universal vampire films, “Dracula,” “Dracula’s Daughter,” and “Son of Dracula,” yet they find their own way to amplify and further promote the icons presented in the earlier American movies.
“The Vampire” (1957) begins with the lovely Marta (Ariadna Welter), a would-be dancer returning to the Black Sierra region to her ancestral home The Sycamores. She’s been summoned and arrives at the local train station to meet the affable Dr. Enrique (Abel Salazar—producer of these films). They hitch a ride with a mysterious caped figure who is hauling a coffin-sized crate of earth from the old country bound for a fellow named Duval, actually his master Count Karol Lavud (Germán Robles). When she and the good doctor arrive, her beloved home is seen to have become a crumbling manse, her one aunt had just died and been buried (a wonderful torch-lit funeral procession scene stalked by a female vampire in a flowing black gown) while the other aunt Eloisa (she in the black) is looking far younger than she ought. Count Lavud has attached himself to this old family, having initiated Eloisa into her undead state and he plans on reviving his defunct brother, another vampire, with the freshly imported soil. We eventually discover that the doctor was summoned by Marta’s uncle to investigate the strange degeneration of his sister. Marta is given the bite, but ultimately the vampiric couple are dispatched and the Count’s brother is never revived.
The tale continues with “The Vampire’s Coffin” (1958) wherein a colleague of Dr. Enrique purloins the buried casket bearing the staked corpse of Lavud from a mausoleum, assisted by a hulking thug—a wonderful scene in which the prematurely buried aunt from the previous film tries to stop their madness. The thug insists upon viewing the coffin’s contents and upon eyeing the fancy jeweled medallion entwined around the stake he asks for more money from hapless Dr. Marion. Of course, once Marion leaves the room his helper returns for the medallion and resurrects Lavud by pulling the stake free. Lavud spares his life, but hypnotizes him with the sparkling pendant to enslave him, and his coffin is thus brought to the basement of a wax museum featuring a chamber of horrors. Lavud again pursues Marta and Dr. Enrique does what he can to finally save her from becoming one of the undead. There is a wonderful climax in which Lavud pursues Marta who finally is starring in a weirdly choreographed dance presentation. Much like the Phantom of the Opera, Lavud sweeps her away and carries her along precarious catwalks, spiriting her back to his underground lair, where he is confronted by Dr. Enrique for their last battle.
Lavud solidifies the vampire archetype begun by Lugosi, wearing evening clothes and sporting a cape with a high standing black velvet collar, and he even has a set of enlarged canines for fanging his victims. The surging score is again written by maestro Gustavo C. Carrion, and he carries over much of the music from the first film into the second, making the two seem as two halves of one long work. Of course the prop bats are crude and hilarious which adds to the fun, but you will savour the spooky goings-on, furthering the legacy of the Universal movies. The prints are presented uncut in full-frame and there are some minor elements of print damage in “The Vampire,” but the black and white is quite rich overall. There are English subtitles to the original Spanish and there are also English dubbed prints as well. The bi-lingual elegance is maintained at the same level as the previous Casa Negra releases. Extras include audio commentary by Robert Cotter (author of The Mexican Masked Wrestler & Monster Filmography), a photo essay on Mexican horror films, radio spots, and still and poster galleries and more.
If you enjoy vampire films, this set is a must-have addition to your collection. Click on the cover image to visit Casa Negra’s web site for more details. If you wish to order the set from Amazon.com, click this link.
The Ghost Issue #5
Editor Sonny B. continues to present strong material in The Ghost, Satanic Forum of Canada with revealing interviews. First up is author and professional magician Magister George Sprague who recounts his time spent with Dr. LaVey. Priestess Magda Graham then reveals some of the recent history of Satanism in the U.K. from her eyewitness perspective and she also contributes an essay. Finally, Father Christopher Mealie is forthcoming regarding sex, exploitation films, photography and artistic inspiration. Warlock U.V. Ray and “Discipline Helltower” provide fine essays. Most photographs and art illustrating the articles are printed in color. This one is a keeper!
To order your copy click on the cover to visit the Emporium!
The Devil’s Diary Volume 10
Draconis Blackthorne’s “Manifesto of the Order of The Black Dragon” celebrates the Autumnal Equinox with another packed issue. Our 6-6-06 Los Angeles Event is covered with pieces by Warlock Bill M. and Warlock Blackthorne. The “Noctuarium” is as usual filled with multi-media reviews. There is an interview with Chadwick Hardy about his band Predatory Mindset. Works by Paul Hill, Jan Welke, Michael D. Walach, Kyle Whittaker, and M. DeLuca complete the package along with a tribute to the wedding of Draconis and Lady Blackthorne. Click on the image above to visit the site for ordering information.
Nocturnum: Dark of the Night
Corvis Nocturnum, author of Embracing the Darkness, presents an anthology of tenebrous short fiction with tales authored by himself as well as Scarlet Duperre, N. S. Mounts and others. The authors each have brief biographies with portrait photos so that you can come to know them a bit better. $16.95 is the price and you can click on the cover above to visit his web site to place your order and encounter his other publications.
Also from Mr. Nocturnum is this compilation of his visual artwork which has an introduction by Joseph Vargo. His paintings and sketches, essentially surreal erotica in the dark fantasy genre, are divided into three broad categories: “Heavenly Creatures,” “Delights of the Damned,” and finally “Fairy Tails.” Each has a brief description by the artist to enhance your understanding of the techniques employed as well as the imagery used. It is priced at $34.99. Click on the cover above to visit his web site and order your copy
Dark Moon Press
P.O. Box 11496
Fort Wayne, IN 46858-1496
Jason Clark: Antichrist Bible
The title of this book is misleading as it is not precisely a bible of any sort. I suspect that the author simply used it to cash in on people who might mistake it as having a relationship to “The Satanic Bible.” There is none. He actually signs his author name as Satan on the cover! The book is a clumsy attempt to create some form of numerological “majick,” (that spelling should be a giveaway) and with all of the lousy grammar and shoddy writing it is as obtuse as it is pointless. To wrap it up there is some astonishingly rotten poetry. Here’s the exact title of one piece: “God has fell.” I kid you not! This might just seem like a bad joke, but Clark is as serious as he is talent less.“Utter Crap!” as Ebenezer Blackadder would say. To be avoided.
The author is trying to establish his own “Antichrist Church,” and he would be welcome to any dullards foolish enough to follow his dim-witted lead. His web site is a hoot, so click on the cover to take a gander.
22 November, XLI A.S.:
Tomorrow, here in the U.S., is the secular holiday called “Thanksgiving” which originated as a harvest festival amongst Christian pilgrims who came to the New World. It has evolved over time into an occasion for gathering with family and overeating at a feast. Being Satanists, we naturally support this indulgent banquet, and may take the time when with relatives to deal out our own form of justice, tweaking those who irk us and warmly embracing the ones who add richness to our lives.
May those of you who choose to celebrate enjoy a truly indulgent “Gluttony Day”!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore
Magister Svengali: Monitoring the Decline of Western Civilization
To enjoy a feast of truly Satanic concepts, stop by and read our own Magister Svengali’s blog. Certain to brighten your holiday, or any day for that matter, you will be challenged and refreshed by this leading exponent of Satanism. Click on the link above, if you dare!
11 November, XLI A.S.:
TO OUR MEN-AND-WOMEN-AT-ARMS
In honor of the U.S. holiday Veterans Day, we once again stand at attention and snap a horned salute to all of our military members worldwide, serving under the flags of many nations, whether you be veterans, reservists, or on active duty. Your chosen service is deeply appreciated and always remembered! You honor us through your bravery.
Hail Victory!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore
Tonight at Midnight
November 9th - 16th
featuring the creepy 1976 film
“ALICE SWEET ALICE”
in glorious washed-out color!
Starring 12 year old Brooke Shields
and Paula Sheppard of the New wave cult classic LIQUID SKY as Alice.
Also, a retro music video from Bobby Vee!
Only on Bay3-TV
[Chater Cable Ch. 3]
BAY CITY AREA
31 October, XLI A.S.:
A “Happy Halloween!” to true Satanists the world over.
Magus Gilmore’s perspective concerning this holiday has become a tradition for our site:
Tonight is the night when the mundane folk try to reach down inside and touch the darkness—which for we Satanists is a daily mode of existence. Particularly in the United States, Halloween is a time for celebrating “monster films,” wearing costumes of a macabre nature, and evoking the thrill of “fun fear.” Children of all ages can indulge their fantasies by donning garb that allows for intense role playing and the release of those demonic cores, oft-hidden in the oubliettes of their psyches.
Though there are traditions which make this an occasion for recalling the dead, it has been popularized as a time to play with what historically were fears directed towards the unquiet spirits of the departed. And the grand traditional question “Trick or treat?” has become a means for fulfilling an indulgence in sweets, without the need to resort to the optional coercion. We embrace what this holiday has become, and do not feel the need to be tied to ancient practices. This night, Satanists smile at the amateur explorers of their own inner darkness, for we know that they enjoy their brief dip into the pool of the “shadow world.” So on this eve of magic and mystery, we encourage their tenebrous fantasies, the candied indulgence, and the wide-ranging evocation of our aesthetics (while tolerating some of the chintzy versions), even if it is but once per annum. At other times of the year, when those not of our tribe shake their heads in wonder at us, we can point out that they may find some understanding by examining their own All Hallows Eve doings, as an alternative to our recent favored saying: “We’re just part of the Addams clan.”
So, have an indulgent, mysterious, and deeply satisfying Samhain!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore
Magistra Peggy Nadramia
Magistra Blanche Barton
ANNOUNCING OLD NICK MAGAZINE
FINALLY, A SOPHISTICATED MEN’S MAGAZINE AND WEBSITE PACKED WITH “DEVILISHLY GOOD ENTERTAINMENT” FOR THE SATANIC MAN. IT’S BEEN CALLED “PLAYBOY WITH HORNS,” BY THE LUCKY FEW WHO’VE EXPERIENCED THE PROTOTYPE ISSUE THAT PREMIERED ON 6/6/06. NOW YOU TOO CAN EXPERIENCE DECADENT INDULGENCE, FLESHY DELIGHTS, EPICUREAN TASTES, PROVOCATIVE STORIES AND FLESHY DELIGHTS (YES, WE HAVE A ONE-TRACK MIND). CLICK THE BANNER ABOVE!!
CHURCH OF SATAN MEMBER DISCOUNTS COMING SOON!!
Halloween Reminder!
Dark Sky Films Presents
The Devil’s Rain
Now available, as released with loving care by Dark Sky Films, is this beautiful print of The Devil’s Rain. A new 16x9 transfer made from 35mm vault materials, it is quite handsome, with deep blacks and crisp widescreen imagery. This release includes, as an extra, the black and white newsreel footage of the first public Satanic wedding of Judith Case and John Raymond, from February 1st, 1967. It is brief, but quite a treasure to have preserved on DVD.
This DVD is being released on Halloween. Click on the cover or this link to order directly from Dark Sky. If you prefer, you may also order this from Amazon.com.
Headless Historicals is pleased to announce the unveiling of their most requested doll, Jayne Mansfield. Dressed in her signature pink, Jayne stands just over 30" tall and has hand-painted features. This tall blonde beauty can stand up all on her own. Anyone who would like to see this doll should follow the link above as we don’t want to spoil the surprise for anyone who might have some misconceptions regarding Ms. Mansfield’s death.
It’s Time Again!
Citizen sCara has created many beautiful olfactory delights
evocative of the season. All are limited in number, shipping immediately
& going fast. Do not hesitate! Visit now & fill up your Treat Bucket!Custom Crafted, Curiously Potent Scent Blends,
Super-Deformed Soaps,
Ceremonial Incense & Forever More...
Teuber: BIOMECHANIK
Artist Michel Teuber turns his hand to aural realms, creating moody industrial tracks. Click on the cover above to contact him for ordering information. Click on the heading to visit his web site.
Feral Fall Greetings!
The season is changing, and your undomesticated publisher has new books for your pleasure.
AMERICAN HAIR METAL by Steven Blush
Perhaps you hated it, maybe you loved it. Grunge chased it into
seeming oblivion, but Feral House has it back in full spandex,
lipstick and Aqua Net glory. Yes, that's right: the extravagant and
often hilarious surfaces of AMERICAN HAIR METAL by Steven Blush, with
amazing photo contributions from William Hames, Eddie Malluk and
Frank White. See here.AMERICAN HAIR METAL is now available and you can order your copy from Feral House today!
AMERICAN HARDCORE: the book, the film, the CD
Steven Blush also wrote the Feral House book AMERICAN HARDCORE, the
"tribal history" of the intense early '80s punk movement, now made
into the movie currently being theatrically released by Sony Classics. See here.Read about the Feral House book here.
Info on the soon-to-come Rhino Records CD here.
CHOLO STYLE: HOMIES, HOMEGIRLS, AND LA RAZA by Reynaldo Berrios
He did a magazine called "Mi Vida Loca" and risked mayhem
interviewing gang members throughout California and Texas. After
all, his tattoos revealed him as a San Francisco-based homie. CHOLO
STYLE by Reynaldo Berrios reveals the Chicano barrio aesthetic in
full glory, all the vernacular prison drawings and warlike Aztlan
rhetoric. These guys have style, that's for sure. See here.CHOLO STYLE is now available and you can order your copy from Feral House today!
THE CARNIVALS OF LIFE AND DEATH by James Shelby Downard
Is it crazy? Is it true? It's James Shelby Downard! And we've
finally published Downard's amazing memoir of his early years in the
1930s, THE CARNIVALS OF LIFE AND DEATH, when Ku Klux Klanners,
Freemasons, the FBI and mystical bigwigs on notorious Jekyll Island
screwed with young Downard and paid the price. Downard may be best
known for his article "King-Kill 33°" from the Amok Press version of
Apocalypse Culture, a latter-day pop cult phenomenon. See here.THE CARNIVALS OF LIFE AND DEATH is now available and you can order your copy from Feral House today!
ROOM WITH A VIEW by Lucy Fur
It's hard to believe that the buxom lass Lucy Fur both posed for and
took all the pictures in the handsome clothbound coffee table photo
collection, ROOM WITH A VIEW. But so it is! Lucy's inimitable style
recalls Bunny Yeager, Helmut Newton and Cindy Sherman. ROOM WITH A
VIEW contains sixty color photographs, memorably taken in a vanishing
breed of unique and exotic hotel environments. ROOM WITH A VIEW is
Feral House's first collaborative effort with Jefferson Holt's DANIEL
13. See here.ROOM WITH A VIEW is now available and you can order your copy from Feral House today!
DEATH SCENES Special Edition
The Brian De Palma "Black Dahlia" movie based on James Ellroy's book
has just been released, and coincidentally enough, we've turned up a
few precious copies of a limited cloth edition of DEATH SCENES,
complete with a signed and numbered never-before-printed LAPD
photograph of the Black Dahlia murder. The photo is signed by the
great Katherine Dunn (Geek Love). We're selling these few books for
$150 each. An internet search reveals that only one other like
edition is available -- for the price of $675. See here.DEATH SCENES Special Edition is now available in very limited
quantities (single copies sold to individuals only) and you can order
your copy from Feral House today!
GETTING OUT: YOUR GUIDE TO LEAVING AMERICA by Mark Ehrman (Process)
My other imprint, Process Media, done in collaboration with Jodi Wille, has the second volume of our
Self-Reliance Series coming out shortly: GETTING OUT: YOUR GUIDE TO LEAVING AMERICA.
You may be thinking about it. This book tells how it's done and where to go. See here.Thanks for reading!
With All My Beast Feral Wishes,
Adam Parfrey
Feral House / Process Media
29 September, XLI A.S.:
Lustmord: R I S I N G
(LIVE 06.06.06)
The Lustmord Album 25 Years In The Making.
Lustmord: Rising was captured live at The Center for Inquiry, Los Angeles June 6, 2006, with no additional overdubs or production. The first Lustmord performance in 25 years, following an invitation from the Church of Satan to perform as live accompaniment to the church’s first ever public Satanic High Mass, given in celebration of their 40th anniversary. The performance drew on material from various Lustmord albums, melded and blended into new combinations, as well as new material and improvisation.
The release of Lustmord: Rising also marks the 25th anniversary of Lustmord. Over the quarter century of its existence Lustmord has attained a legendary reputation, with numerous albums and collaborative recording partnerships with the likes of Tool, Melvins, Coil, Paul Haslinger (Tangerine Dream), SPK, Chris & Cosey (Throbbing Gristle), Clock DVA, Robert Rich, Jarboe (Swans), Current 93, Nurse With Wound and Lori Carson.
Brian Williams, the man behind Lustmord, has furthermore made a name for himself in the last 13 years, while based in Los Angeles, with his sound design and music expertise for film, television commercials and video games. He has worked on more than 40 motion pictures, including Underworld, The Crow, The Craft, From Dusk Till Dawn, The Negotiator, The Siege, Bride of Chucky and The Insider.
Often imitated, never equaled. Lustmord live, the next chapter.
Click on the cover to visit the Vaultworks website where this and other fine music may be purchased.
HALLOWEEN DOWN UNDER
A GATHERING IS IN PREPARATION IN AUSTRALIA FOR HALLOWEEN 2006.
THE EVENT IS BEING ORGANISED IN BRISBANE FOR AUSTRALIAN MEMBERS INTERESTED IN ENJOYING THE FESTIVITIES. A GROUP RITUAL WILL BE HELD, FOLLOWED BY REVELRY IN AN ISOLATED LOCATION. REFRESHMENTS & TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED.
LOCAL REGISTERED AND ACTIVE MEMBERS, E-MAIL US WITH YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD NUMBER FOR INFORMATION.
23 September, XLI A.S.:
Today we mark the seasonal change—to Fall in the Northern Hemisphere, and Spring in the Southern Hemisphere—and so wish an “Exquisite Equinox!” to true Satanists the world over. Enjoy your harmony with the endless cycling of Nature!
Magus Peter H. Gilmore
Magistra Peggy Nadramia
Magistra Blanche Barton
Dr. Mark Birnbaum, Diabolical Virtuoso
Those of you who attended the Anton LaVey Memorial Concert in New York City in 1998 will recall the extraordinary keyboard prowess of Dr. Mark Birnbaum, who has wowed audiences in many venues, including his long stint as resident keyboard player for the Joe Franklin Show. He is equally at home in ragtime, jazz, and classical pieces and his own evocative compositions span these genres as well. Now you can savor his mastery in these three CDs.
Hot Piano! is 77 minutes of joy, with works by Scott Joplin, Jelly Roll Morton, Ellington, Scriabin, Debussy, and Birnbaum, among others.
Ab Ovo gets off to a rousing start with the live recording of Birnbaum’s improvisation on Dr. LaVey’s “The Battle Hymn of the Apocalypse” from that memorial concert, and includes mostly works by Birnbaum—blues pieces and classical as well, including “Lucifer Rising.”
Jelly Roll Morton’s Missing New Orleans is a summoning of the past magical atmosphere of that now devastated city of darkness, finishing with Birnbaum’s own “Dark Star.”
Together these three make a perfect anthology capturing the breadth of Dr. Birnbaum’s artistry. Sound quality does vary between pieces, as some are studio recordings and others were captured live in concert.
Click on the album images above to visit Birnbaum’s web site which includes a store for purchasing your copies.
Sigil of Baphomet Wall Plaque
The Lamborghini of Baphomet Sigils is here! Hand-painted by our own Warlock Byrd, this 36 inch diameter plaque is wrought with the skill and passion of a true Satanic artist, making it a potent “gateway” to the Prince of Darkness. This is not a mass produced item, but an object of fine art, custom-rendered for each order. Its majestic size is suitable to make an imposing presence in a large ritual chamber. This Sigil is sure to energize your infernal space and provide the proper focus for all of your workings of Greater Magic.
Available by special order now through the Church of Satan Emporium. You may also purchase one of these exquisite pieces in a diameter of 18 inches, suitable for a more intimate setting. Click on the images to head to the Emporium. Treat yourself to the best!
The Diabolical Sculpture of Jason Leach
GERM BOOKS + GALLERY
October 6 through November 26, 2006
Opening Reception Friday, October 6, 5 - 7 pm
Gallery and Store hours: Fridays, 10 am - 7 pm; Saturdays, 12 noon - 7 pm; Sundays 12 noon - 5 pm.
Since childhood, Jason Leach has had a passion for the dark side. Today this passion manifests itself in metal-finished resin castings with specifically occult themes. A graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia with a degree in Industrial Design, Leach refined his molding and casting skills at DTR Studios and Felber Ornamental Plaster Company. He has created many sculptures for private collectors and hopes to “ignite the Black Flame in all that view them.”
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Also: 215 Literary Festival presents
Readings from the Abyss
Saturday, October 7, 7 pm, FREE!
Local talents read selected literature (ancient to modern) about sinister doings. From De sade to Snodgrass, from Nietzsche to Crowley, the “banality” of Evil will be thoroughly disproved. “When you look into the abyss, the abyss looks into you,” but frankly, we don’t care. Readings accompanied by Satanic video loops and the greatest hits of dark ambient underground.
GERM BOOKS + GALLERY
308 East Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19125
215.423.5002
DarkHaus Theatre
Beginning October 5th, every night at Midnight, on BAY3-TV.
Hosted by the defrocked psychologist & outlaw SEVERIN FAUSTUS!
Halloween is almost here, and WE have so much Evil & tickle fights to share.
The Mexican Film Fest Continues!
CASA NEGRA Entertainment Presents
Casa Negra continues their superb releases of the most fascinating works to emerge from Mexican horror cinema.
First up, the wildly surreal “Brainiac” (1961) originally known as “El Barón del Terror.” A marvelous title montage of Goya art takes us to the prelude, the trial of Baron Vitelius (Abel Salazar) mounted by the Spanish inquisition in 1661. Of course, this aristocrat is a diabolist, having seduced all of the local women (married and maiden —he grins at the accusation). He practiced witchcraft and used the black art of necromancy to divine the future. He treats the Inquisitors scornfully, even making his chains vanish in a show of power. Yet he is condemned to be burnt alive, all the while cursing the inquisitors that he shall return in 300 years to smite their descendants.
Fast-forward to the future, 1961, when a comet arrives and it seems to drop off a fragment which embodies the transformed essence of the Baron. He emerges as a gargoyle, with a pulsing head, tentacular fingers and a forked tongue which he uses to suck the brains from the skulls of his victims. Upon his arrival, he feasts upon a man who stumbles upon him, and then purloins the suit of this victim. Transforming himself back to his handsome countenance, he first seeks sustenance by hunting “loose women.” Vitelius regains his ancestral castle and invites his intended victims to a swanky cocktail party in preparation for his revenge. There’s a shapely lady astronomer, Victoria Contreras, who is a target because of her bloodline. She and her love interest (a reincarnation of the one man who stood up for the Baron centuries ago) help an older scientist monitor the comet’s arrival. The other descendants are various power figures and sophisticates. The Baron keeps an ornate chalice filled with brains locked in a cabinet, from which he sups with a silver spoon. Vitelius does succeed in hypnotically paralyzing, then gorging upon many of the progeny of his past judges. This film has got to be seen to be believed!
The low budget forced the director to often use backdrops for exterior modern locations—such as the observatory, so there is a feeling of theatricality, rather than realism, to many of the images. The gargoyle makeup is imaginative and grotesque, the head throbbing bizarrely. The police are used as comic relief, bumbling along until they assist in the fiery climax when the expected folk are rescued from the clutches of the Brainiac. Extras include a commentary track by Kirb Pheeler, longtime advocate of this film, and plenty of cast and crew biographical material and still galleries. You’ll certainly never forget this truly unique, outré movie.
“The Black Pit of Dr. M” (“Misterios de Ultratumba” from 1958) is rather the opposite of our previous selection. It is a “Twilight Zone” styled tale wherein two doctors attempt to pierce the veil between life and death to learn for certain what lies beyond. Naturally, since this is a horror tale, nothing good will come of these efforts. Dr. Mazali, who is the head of an insane asylum, reminds Dr. Aldama on his death bed of their agreement that whoever first passes must return to inform the other during a seance of the truth about the hereafter. Aldama’s shade (in a black cloak) then appears to his abandoned daughter, Patricia (a sexy showgirl), and demands that she bring a message to Mazali. When she arrives at the asylum, she becomes the love object of handsome intern Eduardo, and then things really become strange. A madwoman under the hypnotic care of Mazali splashes acid on the face of Elmer the orderly, disfiguring him like the phantom of the opera. When this lunatic is murdered, Mazali is pegged as the criminal and now shall be executed by hanging. After his sentence is carried out, Mazali is reincarnated in Elmer’s body which rises from the grave, and then seeks to make Patricia his own. Overall, the photography is superb, and the set—a crumbling gothic pile with caged lunatics shrieking in agony—is a potent context for this tragically derailed search for metaphysical enlightenment.
This atmospheric film is presented in Spanish and you can also view English subtitles—there is no dubbed English version. The extras include an English commentary track by aficionado Frank Coleman (which has optional Spanish subtitles) and a “music video” made in 1993 by 21st Century Art, which includes Coleman as a drummer.
Like the previous releases, Casa Negra has taken care to present both of these elegantly and bilingually, with gorgeous full-frame transfers in both the original Spanish with optional subtitles and for “Brainiac” a dubbed English track (there is a brief scene that reverts to Spanish in the dubbed version). These are the complete versions of each film, with scenes you may not have viewed if you only saw the edited English versions released so many years ago. Again, maestro G. C. Carrion supplies surging orchestral scores that perfectly suit the action. These are exquisite releases of films worth your viewing. You will not want to miss either of these vintage visions of demented darkness.
So, if you enjoyed the previous offerings by Casa Negra, be sure to grab these. If you haven’t yet taken the plunge into the phantasmagorical world of Mexican horror, then now is the time to do so. Click on the covers above to order them from Amazon.com. They will serve you well to evoke the Fall sensibility. Next released will be the saga of vampire Count Lavud—we’ll let you know when these arise from their coffins.
14 September, XLI A.S.:
Oddfellow, Vol. II, N0. 1, Fall 2006
The fine third issue of this intriguing publication featuring illustrated fiction, comics, and humor makes a foray into the art of in-depth interview and the featured subject is Magus Peter H. Gilmore. There is a detailed discussion of aspects of Satanism, the Church of Satan, and Gilmore’s reflections over the past two decades. It is presented with elegance and is accompanied with new photos of Magus Gilmore as well as his own visual art and even a page from the manuscript of his piano sonata. Also included is a wild, full-color comic "Amerigo Jackson," disturbing fiction by Patrick Penta and Phill Webber, and the wonderfully bizarre piece built on the concept of stalking actor John Turturro by Aaron Sanders. There are even more entertaining comics as well as reviews, and all for only $3.50 on the newsstand. You won’t want to miss this one!
For more information, click on the cover above to visit the Oddfellow Magazine web site, and order copies of their first two issues before they are sold out. These magazines are created by people who clearly care about producing quality print media, and they are all a joy to experience.
12 September, XLI A.S.:
Friday, October 27, 2006 at the Historic Hawthorne Hotel
Dear Citizens of the Infernal Empire, Join me, Shawn Poirier, with Christian Day and the Witches of Salem for a night of reveling, cavorting, and raising hell at the Official Salem Witches Halloween Ball! Held in the Grand Ballroom of Salem's historic Hawthorne Hotel, the Witches' Ball is the World’s most exclusive Halloween event! As a special Halloween treat to our esteemed friends at the Church of Satan, tickets are $100 per person for COS members only (regular price: $150 per ticket). When ordering tickets, please use the discount codeword: SATAN
The Warlock is the cunning man, the sorcerer, the conjurer, the summoner of spirits, the protector of his people, and a traitor against his sworn enemy the Church. To the Norse, he was the Varðlokkur, the singer of spirits. To the Scots, he was the Warlord priest, the heretical enchanter who adhered to his own code and to no one else's. This Halloween season, the Witches of Salem celebrate the power of the men in our lives. Men, dress as your most rebellious and devilish as you cast off the shackles of authority and walk as the god that you are! Women, dress in your most sexy black garters and lace for those you hope to bewitch and ensnare.
Each year at Halloween, the chill winds of autumn whisper to Witches, Warlocks and welcome strangers who journey from around the globe to Salem, Massachusetts to stir and summon the shades of the dead who walk among us at Samhain. From time out of mind, the people of the shadows have used this magical evening to walk where most fear to go. By spirit, by fire, by blood, and by book, we will conjure and constrain the spirits of the wandering dead to do our bidding.
Bewitchments of the Evening Include
- Sumptuous hors d'oeuvres
- Free Tarot readings by practicing Salem Witches
- An eclectic mix of music from Pop to Goth, Industrial to Top 40 with dj addambomb
- A cash bar to serve your favorite potion
- $666 Cash Prize for Best Costume
- 2nd Place Winner will receive 2 tickets to the Vampires' Masquerade Ball (for 2006 or 2007)
At the evening's pinnacle, all Witches and Warlocks present will break the chains of guilt-laden oaths placed upon them by orthodox faiths as they meet the man in black and sign his book, striking new oaths and promises to a more magical life. Upon the closing of the ceremony, Salem Witches Shawn Poirier, Christian Day, and the Raven Moon Coven will honor the Witches’ New Year by casting the annual Salem Witches' Magic Circle to draw open the veil to the spirit world and conjure the dead!
Check out photos from the Witches' Ball 2005: Gallery 1 | Gallery 2
8:30 – 12:30, Friday, October 27, 2006 at The Historic Hawthorne Hotel
The Official Salem Witches' Halloween Ball gathers Witches together from across the globe, who converge upon Salem to create an evening of sorcery and enchantment!
Tickets are $100 per person for COS members only. Tickets go quickly so reserve your tickets online using your MasterCard, VISA, Discover, or AMEX. To order by phone, call (800) 595-4TIX (4849). Be sure to include the special COS members only discount code: SATAN when you purchase online or by phone. Ticket sales are final.
Church of Satan member Marilyn Mansfield featured at the FMFB Festival in NYC
The FilmMusicFashion&Babes Festival will take place in NYC, September 12-17 with over 10 top clubs participating. Filmmakers, actors, musicians, models and designers will come together for this event in the hopes of getting exposure for their respective crafts, and inspiring others to also pursue their dreams.
On Thursday, September 14th, the FNFB Festival will be at Crash Mansion, 199 Bowery (Bowery & Spring St.) NYC. Marilyn Mansfield will be modeling during the Redbuttafly fashion show. There will also be a film screening, live music, and much more. The event starts at 6pm, and the fashion show begins at 10:15pm.
Sources:
http://www.fmfb.net/festival.html
10 September, XLI A.S.:
Delashay in Europe!
MAGICK MIND
On Friday, September 15 from 4-6 pm EST, Corvis Nocturnum will again be a guest with Ed Craft and co-host Julia Cole on Magick Mind Paranormal Talk Radio. One can participate in their chat room during the boradcast so follow the link to visit their web site and enjoy the show.
6 September, XLI A.S.:
COOP: BRAND RECOGNITION
Magister Diabolus Rex Interview
Click on the link above to read a recent interview with our very own Magister Diabolus Rex in The Portland Mercury, Portland’s leading alternative weekly newspaper.
26 August, XLI A.S.:
MAGICK MIND
On Tuesday, August 22 (scroll down to the proper entry), Magus Gilmore once again spent a stimulating two hours with Ed Craft, and co-host Julia Cole, on Magick Mind Paranormal Talk Radio. At that time a number of our members, including High Priestess Nadramia, had fun in their chat room, discussing papal peccadilloes amongst other topics. The discussion continued past the live broadcast, so you must download it to hear the concluding portion. Visit their web site to download the show, and you will find some of the earlier episodes featuring our High Priest in their archive.
Unique paranoia from FERAL HOUSE!
Downard: The Carnivals of Life and Death
An unusual autobiography written by a maverick conspiracy theory monger who will be familiar to readers of past Feral House releases such as Apocalypse Culture I & II. Downard died before he could complete the chronicle of his strange travels and escapades—this book covers his life up to age 26. It is a wild ride, detailing his encounters with the KKK, Freemasons, and even Franklin Delano Roosevelt! Credibility here is stretched, but it could be the basis for a wonderfully bizarre film. Click on the cover to grab a copy from Amazon.com. Be sure to visit the Feral House web site for other intriguing titles.
New Scapegoat Publications!
The long awaited expanded collection of Jim Goad’s ground-breaking publication, as well as a dark coming-of-age comedy by Blag Dahlia. Click on the image above to learn more and order your copies.
DVD Re-release!
Dark Sky Films Presents
The Devil’s Rain
At last we have a beautiful print of The Devil’s Rain, released with loving care by Dark Sky Films. This is a new 16x9 transfer made from 35mm vault materials and it is quite handsome, with deep blacks and crisp wide screen imagery. Of course, most of our members know that this was the Hollywood film that hired Anton LaVey as a technical assistant, which included his rewriting of the ritual sequence text, designing symbols for the sets and costumes, and even appearing as the helmeted High Priest in the major ritual sequence. He even coached the robed Mexican extras to chant in Enochian using cue cards to assure infernal accuracy. There is also the theatrical trailer which includes pre-production art and which prominently announces the participation of Anton LaVey, with a close-up image of him from the film itself.
This release includes, as an extra, the black and white newsreel footage of the first public Satanic wedding of Judith Case and John Raymond, from February 1st, 1967. It is brief, but quite a treasure to have preserved on DVD.
There is a commentary track with the movie’s director, Robert Fuest; however, the fellow interviewing him and leading the commentary steadfastly refuses to mention Dr. LaVey and in fact leads Fuest into commenting on other projects, such as his work on the series “The Avengers,” whenever LaVey is on camera. Thus an opportunity has been missed to document a very unique element of this wonderfully strange horror film.
Regardless of this lapse, you will want to own this release, which features a superb performance by Ernest Borgnine as Jonathan Corbis—a very potent Satanic Master, as well as William Shatner in a wonderfully emphatic role as a man who pits faith against the powers of Darkness, the redoubtable Eddie Albert as a scientist who comes to know that the supernormal exists, and finally the brilliant Ida Lupino lending class to this elaborate production. A cameo by John Travolta marks his film debut and Tom Skerrit also lends his stolid presence. The graphic scenes of Corbis’ followers dissolving in the climactic Devil’s rain will surely remain with you.
This DVD will not be released until Halloween of this year, but you can click on the cover or this link to pre-order directly from Dark Sky to reserve your copy. If you prefer, you may also order this from Amazon.com.
Creation of the Humanoids
War Between the Planets
Dark Sky is also releasing double feature DVDs, and the first listed film on this one, Creation of the Humanoids, is a real gem. Of course, the concept of artificial human companions is one dear to the hearts of many Satanists, and this film posits a post-nuclear holocaust future in which the few remnants of mankind are growing increasingly sterile, and have turned to humanoid robots as workers and companions. These humanoids are countered by the Society of Flesh and Blood, a uniformed fascist vigilante group meant to resist the rise of the artificial humans —disparagingly called “clickers.” We have a film that is high on talk and short on action, but which deals with the subject matter in a very unique and intriguing manner. The Flesh and Blooders are particularly appalled at relationships made between humans and clickers, in which they are placed “in rapport.” The robots recharge in a temple, forbidden to humans, as they link with their main-frame “Father Mother.” You will probably figure out the surprise ending, but it is an interesting journey to get there, and will haunt you long afterwards.
Battle Between the Planets is one of those Italian sci-fi films, with bright colors, silver rockets, sassy broads, and spiffy uniforms. The menace is a living planet heading towards earth, finally dispatched with the proper amount of angst and self-sacrifice. The characters are like live-action puppets, akin to those Gerry Anderson shows.
Both films are in anamorphic widescreen, and are fine transfers. Click on the cover to order yours now from the Dark Sky site, or click on the following link to purchase from Amazon.com.
Be sure to explore Dark Sky’s site for other interesting releases.
Schwarz & Magisch Issue 3
The third issue of the fine German language magazine, Schwarz & Magisch (Black & Magic) published by Church of Satan member Lars Peter Kronlob’s Edition Esoterick has been released. Featured is an interview with our Reverend Chris Redstar. Essays by Magister Herbert Paulis, Oliver Fehn, and Tim Lenz are also included. In addition, there are German translations of essays by our Magister Michael Rose and Agent U.V. Ray, plenty of reviews, and even the comic strip “Futurepig.” This magazine is available to readers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland directly from the publisher. Click on the cover image to visit Edition Esoterick's site for ordering information. German readers can also purchase a copy through Amazon.de.
“DesDuivels.info is een informatiepunt waar duidelijke en ondubbelzinnige informatie omtrent satanisme en de Church of Satan te vinden is in de Nederlandse taal.Eerder dan een defensieve of rechtvaardigende houding aan te nemen, ben ik van mening dat het satanisme geen verdediging behoeft. Er werd dan ook geen gastenboek of discussieforum voorzien, de site bevat enkel teksten over het satanisme en de Church of Satan. Ongetwijfeld zullen de teksten in de toekomst nog uitbreiden en voortdurend aangescherpt worden.”
“DesDuivels.Info (“De Duivels” meaning “Of the Devil”) is an information point where clear and unambiguous information about Satanism and the Church of Satan can be found in the Dutch language. Rather than taking a defensive or justifying position, I am of the opinion that Satanism does not need to be justified. Consequently, no guestbook or discussion forum is provided. The site contains only texts about Satanism and the Church of Satan. Undoubtedly, the body of texts will expand in the future, and content will be continually refined.”
JOE COLEMAN
September 7–October 4, 2006 The Cartin CollectionTilton Gallery
8 East 76th Street, New York
212.737.221Tuesday–Saturday 10–6pm
Monday by AppointmentTHURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
Opening Reception, 6–9pm
Tilton GalleryFRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
9PM – Midnight
Screening of early and rare film and video clips,
including David Wojnarowicz’s Where Evil Dwells,
Jeri Cain Rossi’s Black Hearts Bleed Red, and
Robert-Adrian Pejo’s Rest in Pieces.The Two Boots Pioneer Theater
www.twoboots.com/pioneer
155 East 3rd Street between Avenues A and B
New York
(212) 591-0434SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9
3pm
Interview And Conversation with Joe Coleman
Moderated by Special Guest
Tilton Gallerywww.joecoleman.com
www.jacktiltongallery.com
Psychotic SINema
Coming to the Detroit area this Fall, with 50% less Evil and twice as much Mirth & Weirdness!
Hosted by TV/Radio personality WOLFMAN MAC KELLY.
14 August, XLI A.S.:
BlogTalkRadio “We Were The Cool Kids”
Yesterday, Reverend Jack Malebranche spoke on the Canada-based talk show and was treated quite cordially as he did his usually suave job of explaining our perspective. Click on the link above to download an mp3 file.
He is also appearing today on “The Allan D’Angelo Show” www.waif883.org - 2:00 PM EST / 1:00 PM CST / 11:00AM PST - to discuss his forthcoming book, ANDROPHILIA—A Manifesto.
SATAN SPEAKS
Some of you may remember that there used to be a U.K. based online message board for Church of Satan members and Satanists in general. That resource disappeared around two years ago. This has, I feel, been a detriment to genuine Satanism being adequately represented online in the United Kingdom.
The result is my Satan Speaks message board. I have set this venture up with the intention of making it a useful resource for Satanists based predominantly in the United Kingdom but also for it to be an intelligent and productive platform for Satanists around the globe to swap ideas and make purposeful contacts. Click on the above banner to visit and participate.
DVD Goodies!
CASA NEGRA Entertainment Presents
Historically, Mexico presents a fascinating cultural background, a sophisticated local pagan culture having been conquered and absorbed by Christian European invaders. Thus, films dealing with the supernatural became perfect vehicles to explore the uprising of dark forces from the past to shatter the psyches of those living ordered but fragile lives. At a time when the great black and white Universal horror films starring Karloff and Lugosi had been supplanted by new terrors inspired by scientifically wrought nuclear fear, the studios of Mexico maintained the “gothic” tradition, of ornate sets and costumed characters performing in iconic, almost operatic style—and supernatural monsters. Hammer Films in England had simultaneously begun producing technicolor versions of the classic monsters, Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, the Werewolf. However, in Mexico that evocative, and less expensive, noir look was continued, the cinematography always working to be as shuddersome as possible in capturing the nuances of silver, gray, and pitch black darkness in a world that could be some non-specific period, or even contemporary times.
These films are in Spanish, but had been released in English dubbed versions produced by the K. Gordon Murray studio, and these made their way to American television in the late 1960s. Any youthful monster fan watched these with pleasure, enjoying the cavalcade of witches, vampires, and more unique monstrosities that stalked their victims. They’ve since been difficult to find and had not been given a release which offered them up in their original forms.
Enter the intriguingly named Casa Negra (Black House) company to finally give these movies the respectful treatment they deserve. Here are the first two offerings, The Witch’s Mirror (El Espejo de la Bruja) and The Curse of the Crying Woman (La Maldición de la Llorona).
The presentation of both of these films is respectful and elegant. Their packaging is lovingly designed, fully bi-lingual, and one can flip the inner liner to have either the Spanish or English version visible. You can view the films in the original Spanish language, with or without English subtitles, or even hear the English dubbed version. You will find that the sensibilities of these films are much like those of EC Comics, with revenge and grotesquerie as prime thematic elements.
The Witch’s Mirror begins with a wonderful “historical” narration over Goya prints explaining the history of witchcraft. Our witch is a matronly lady, clad in a long black gown, who invokes her adored Prince of Darkness at an elaborate altar near to her full-length magical mirror, which is empowered by demonic forces to tell her the future. She is distressed to learn that her daughter, married to the doctor who owns the castle in which they live, is soon to be murdered by her husband. Her patron demons declare that this death may not be averted, but afterwards the witch curses the replacement bride who is hideously burned on her hands and face. At this point we learn that the doctor is a bit of a mad scientist, his laboratory complete with a perched owl and bubbling retorts. He’s working on grafting skin from stolen female corpses onto the damaged areas of his new bride. In the course his body snatching, he even discovers that a buried woman actually was a catatonic—not dead at all, but this does not prevent him from removing her hands to use in his mad experiments. The witch ultimately summons the spirit of her daughter to finally exact a dramatic retribution.
The Curse of the Crying Woman comes with an artfully produced booklet (also dual language format) that explains the origins of this mysterious creature, ranging from Aztec folklore to European myths of Medea, as well as variants from around the world. In this film she is a vengeful witch, descended from earlier manifestations. Her home is a huge, crumbling estate, and her three Great Danes assist in the pursuit of victims. Her niece Amelia returns to claim an inheritance and discovers that Aunt Selma is the keeper of dark secrets which have been part of the family for generations. There is a touch of Poe’s House of Usher in the use of the building itself as a symbol of a family which manifests internal evil that consumes it over time. Fascinatingly, when Selma is incarnating her demonic aspect, her eyes are black pits, in makeup done just as it was in the much later film The Devil’s Rain, which was also shot in Mexico—so perhaps there was some link?
The surging music by Gustavo Cesar Carreon in both films is symphonic, and once heard yo
