The Wytches announce new album 'Talking Machine'

Photo: Steve Gullick

UK psych-punk stalwarts The Wytches return with 'Black Ice', the ferocious first single from their upcoming album 'Talking Machine', due out on the 10th October via Alcopop! Records.

'Talking Machine' draws thematic inspiration from Thomas Edison’s early gramophone demonstrations, events dubbed “Tone Tests,” where he would trick audiences into believing pre-recorded music was being played live. It’s a fitting lens for a record grappling with technological shifts, AI anxiety, and authenticity in the digital age.

Frontman Kristian Bell explains that 'Black Ice' was born from spinning old 7” records at a local record shop, falling in love with the trashy, heavy grit of bands like The Milkshakes and The Cannibals. “I remember playing ‘Till The End Of The Day’ by The Kinks,” says Bell. “It sounded heavier than modern metal. Black Ice was our first experiment with that — making something that blows your head off, but without relying on the usual studio tricks.”

Recorded entirely live, a first since their debut, 'Talking Machine' finds the band fusing their signature surf-punk riffs and dark psych energy with a new level of immediacy and bite. From pounding garage-rock to hushed, introspective moments, the album captures a band embracing imperfection and thriving in the chaos.

Have a listen to 'Black Ice' and see the album's full tracklisting below.

'Talking Machine' Tracklist:

01. Talking Machine

02. Black Ice

03. Coffin Nails

04. Perform

05. Factory

06. Romance

07. Is The World Too Old?

08. Nothing To See

09. When The Obsession Began

10. Don't Make It For Me

11. Romance End