To celebrate their 35th anniversary and their return to Gdańsk, Behemoth has recorded a cover of Bathory’s „The Return of Darkness and Evil” to serve as the official anthem for Mystic Festival 2026. Frontman Adam „Nergal” Darski stated that he chose a cover over an original composition to pay homage to the pioneers of the genre who significantly influenced the band’s formative years. The release is accompanied by a professional music video produced by Grupa 13.
A limited physical edition of the anthem will be available during the festival as a vinyl single in three distinct colors. The track is intended to capture the „hymnic character” and atmosphere of the event, reinforcing the festival’s identity as a major hub for extreme music. Nergal noted that the original Bathory track possesses a unique groove and lyrical themes that align perfectly with the mission of the festival. This project also serves as a precursor to the band’s headlining appearance on the Mystic Festival main stage.
