The Black Mass

Pagan Altar's 'The Black Mass' is a haunting exploration of dark themes, invoking imagery of ancient rituals and the rise of malevolent forces. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world engulfed in darkness, where the 'corridors of darkness' and 'wings of man's desire' suggest a journey into the depths of human depravity and longing. The 'soulless ones' conjuring at the 'everlasting fire' hints at a ritualistic summoning, possibly of Satan himself, as the 'mantra of the tumult' awakens a primeval force from humanity's distant past.

The song progresses to describe a world where traditional gods have failed, and chaos reigns. The 'ravens of night' setting 'Valhalla aflame' symbolizes the destruction of old beliefs and the rise of a new, darker era. The 'right hand gods' fighting among themselves reflects the internal conflicts within established religions, leading to a 'demented world' where paths to paradise are obscured. This chaotic backdrop sets the stage for the 'age of Satan,' a time when darkness and malevolence take over, marking the end of the twilight and the dawn of a new, sinister era.

The imagery of the ritual itself is rich and evocative. 'Blue velvet shrouds the altar,' and 'black candles pierce the dark,' creating a somber and eerie atmosphere. The 'skulls of the unbelievers' and the 'inverted cross of burnished gold' are powerful symbols of defiance against traditional religious beliefs. The 'pungent smell of incense' wafting into the night adds to the sensory experience, making the listener feel as if they are part of the dark ceremony. The repeated refrain, 'This is the age, the age of Satan,' reinforces the song's central theme of a world overtaken by darkness and the triumph of malevolent forces.