Rotting Christ “35 Years of Evil Existence: Live in Lycabettus”
As a huge fan of Rotting Christ, I couldn’t wait to get into this one. 35 Years of Evil Existence is more than just a live album, it’s a celebration of a legacy. A legacy that’s helped shape the dark, punishing world of blackened death metal for over three decades. This isn’t just another concert recording. It’s an experience. A ritual.
The moment the album opens with “666”, you can hear the crowd erupt, chanting “Rotting Christ!” It gave me chills as the chants got louder. That chanting intro, mixed with the band’s whispery, low growls is classic Rotting Christ. As it builds anticipation and sets a haunting tone. Completely pulling you in. It’s the perfect way to kick off an album that refuses to let go.
Now, I’ll be real, reviewing a live album like this is tough. Not because it lacks anything, but because these songs have already been celebrated and reviewed for years. But this album isn’t about breaking down individual tracks it’s about the feeling. And that feeling? It’s like being dropped into the center of the pit, sweat flying, hearts pounding, voices screaming in unison. If you blast this album and close your eyes, you’re right there in the crowd.
Rotting Christ has always been one of those rare bands that can translate their studio brilliance into a live setting and this album proves that in full force. Their sound had melodic undertones orchestrated and it just hits you in a way that feels spiritual, almost out-of-body. Some bands crush it in the studio but fall flat on stage not these guys. They bring it every time.
One thing I definitely took away from this album is this: if I ever get the chance to see Rotting Christ live, I will definitely be going. This gave me a whole new insight into just how powerful they are in person. You can hear the energy, the connection with the crowd, and the force behind every note. Honestly, this album is going to fly off the shelves. It’s not just a milestone release it might end up being one of their most iconic records for the experience alone. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their sound, this is the kind of live album that leaves a mark.
One small thing I wish had made it onto the live setlist is “Devadevam”. That track is such a haunting, powerful piece, and hearing it in a setting like Lycabettus would’ve taken the atmosphere to a whole other level. Maybe next time though! Also, I have to say, I’m completely stoked for their upcoming tour with Behemoth and Satyricon. That lineup is insane. The idea of Behemoth and Rotting Christ sharing the stage feels like the kind of “hell-raising family reunion” that fans of blackened death metal can only dream of. It’s like when the darkest forces join up, not for destruction, but for one epic celebration of metal. Honestly, that combination is so wicked it might just open a portal mid-set and I can’t wait to see what kind of hell they unleash together. And for the record, Rituals will always be my favorite Rotting Christ album that record shook me to my core the first time I heard it. Close behind is Holy Mountain, which just solidified everything I already loved about them. This live album might not dethrone them, but it definitely joins the elite ranks in terms of the experience it delivers.
I’m giving it a 4.5 out of 5 only because it’s live and I’m greedy for more but make no mistake: Rotting Christ truly never disappoints.
You can purchase the live album on Season of Mist’s Bandcamp. Or stream the album on Rotting Christ’s Spotify. Check out the band’s Tour page to see if they are coming to your town to experience this album live and in person.
