Dutch black metal outfit Doodswens have unveiled the second single and video, "The Black Flame", taken from their upcoming self‑titled sophomore album, due for release on 17 April via Svart Records.

"The song depicts a dark ritual in which one completely exposes oneself and embraces one's vulnerability, to ignite the inner fire and unleash the hidden power within oneself", comments I. on the new single, and continues about the video: "A dark ritual unfolds.. A man exposes himself, embraces his vulnerability, and ignites inner strength. A wanderer, searching for the unknown, following a mythical witch and her acolytes. He witnesses the ritual, scarification and blood sacrifice, and unintentionally becomes part of what he thought he was only observing".

The name Doodswens translates literally as "death wish", though in Dutch the term carries a deeper nuance, closer to "driven by death". After establishing a strong presence in the Dutch underground, the band gained international attention through tours with Marduk and Gorgoroth. Their performances are ceremonial and ritualistic — experiences described as uplifting or devastating, depending on the burdens the audience brings with them. Whatever you carry will be confronted; comfort is not their aim.

If you've been on the verge of ending your life, or think about it more often than not, then you're living with a death wish. A heavy feeling, like a grey cloud hovering around you, gasping for breath and blurring your vision. This is incomprehensible to anyone. Except for those caught in the middle of it. But this album isn't about giving up. It's about finding strength, about someone who regains new energy after facing death. This album isn't about wishing for death, but the death of the wish. Link