Behemoth bows to Bathory. “The Return of Darkness and Evil” as the anthem of Mystic Festival 2026

No warning, no mercy. Today marks the release of both the single and the music video for “The Return of Darkness and Evil,” Behemoth’s boisterous reinterpretation of the Bathory classic. It’s also the official anthem of Mystic Festival 2026.

Nergal went into more detail about the song:

"The Return of Darkness and Evil’ by Bathory has always been a particularly important song for me. Last season, I got to collaborate with Blood Fire Death, a tribute project for this Swedish legend. I then asked Eric from Watain, who was singing this song during the project’s concerts, if he wouldn’t mind sharing at least one verse, so that I could also sing it. Seeing his reaction, I immediately understood he has as strong a connection with the song as I do, and he wasn’t about to share it with anyone”, says Adam Nergal Darski, the leader of Behemoth. But some good things just take their own sweet time…

When Michal Wardzala suggested that Behemoth should create the anthem for Mystic Festival, I was game immediately. I had only one condition – that it won’t be an original song, but a cover. ‘The Return of Darkness and Evil’ has everything that’s needed – an anthem-like character, fantastic groove, great lyrics that I completely identify with, and an extremely catchy chorus. I came to the conclusion, that it is the perfect song to embody the festival’s atmosphere and become its musical manifestation.”

It's been quite the journey for Behemoth, from rehearsing in the primary school basements at one of the Gdansk housing estates to a headlining spot on the Main Stage of the biggest heavy music festival in Poland, taking place in their hometown no less.

For the last 35 years, Behemoth has gained the stature of the biggest band in the Polish rock history, a peer and an equal of global extreme music giants. Their albums have charted Billboard, their performances are the highlights of the biggest festivals on all continents, and their recent concert at the Paris Philharmonic was broadcasted by Arte TV.

Today, Behemoth’s coming home to Gdansk, announcing with it – following the footsteps of the legendary Bathory – the return of darkness and evil. It’s a return to their own roots as well as a tribute to the pioneers of the genre. “Black Metal night is here again…”

The Behemoth’s version of “The Return of Darkness and Evil” is already available for you to stream and you can also watch the accompanying music video, produced by Grupa 13. The single will also be immortalized on a limited edition vinyl pressing, available to purchase in three colour variants during the festival.

Check out the video below!

Behemoth will perform at the Mystic Festival 2026 on Saturday, June 6, on the Main Stage.