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It's officially fall, which means bands are back from Europe, the festival season over, freeing them to focus on North America once again. Club level bands don't typically have such issues (frequently being left out of the conversation, when it comes to overseas, big stage events) but the domestic calendar starts to fill up and metalheads are eager to see shows, more frequently, once again. 

Case in point, the invasion of Kung Fu Necktie by a touring package, the best of whom were homegrown Morgul Blade (actually accompanying the rest on several dates, not just Philly) and Portland, Oregon trio, Bewitcher, fresh off the new Spell Shock album (via Century Media).

Good to see the locals out to support the Morguls, onstage by 7 PM, on a five band bill, which minimizes their allotted time. Lord Klauf (guitar/gravel throated vocals) wore his eyeglasses throughout the set. Bassist Jimmy Viola was the most active member, headbanging throughout, while guitarist Elyse Nighthawk churned out the power chords, effortlessly. Highlights?  "Beneath The Black Sails" is up early and lit in green. Speaking of green, "The Birds" (Philadelphia Eagles football team) is "near to my heart," says Richie, as he introduces "Eagle Strike", a song dedicated to his fandom of that pigskin crew. Galloping fan favorite "The Five Will Ride At Dawn" is greeted like an old friend. A little too short, but the band have been absent of late, so any live Morgul Blade is better than nothing.

The proposed Bewitcher gig was on eggshells, for a while, what with drummer Aris Hunter's shoulder injury forcing the cancellation of a few dates, earlier in the tour, but he's soldiering on and they played without a hitch. A veritable "greatest hits" sets, mixed with some newbies. Rapid fire delivery of newbie "Dystopic Demonolatry" sees a short, clean burst of guitar, as it nears the end. "Starfire Maelstrom", also off the latest platter, is also aired. Slamming, hypersonic delivery for old school "Under The Witching Cross", the title track from the sophomore effort ('2019), with "Too Fast For The Flames" hot on its heels.

"Speed Til You Bleed" is more than a title, it's a mantra for the entire live show. Don't blink, you might miss something. "Valley Of The Ravens" has been reworked, into a slower, bluesy groove. By contrast, current single, "Out Against The Law" has a bouncy, urgency, with sing-along chorus. "Spell Shock", the new title track, gives way to classic "Satanic Magick Attack", with plenty of headbanging, as Matteo Von Bewitcher barks out the lyrics, plus a little backing vocals from bassist Andreas Magus. Ultimately Bewitcher exits to their punky signature tune, complete with a few Tom G. Warrior death grunts. Great stuff!