In the world of music, there are few artists who fully embrace the darker side of human emotion and experience. Charles Richburg, known by his stage name Let There Be Darkness, is one such pioneer. After two decades of immersing himself in the Los Angeles goth and industrial scenes, Richburg has solidified his unique position as the driving force behind Satanic Dance Music (SDM), a genre he helped develop and popularize. His music challenges conventional perspectives, exploring the depth and complexity of darkness. Recently, Let There Be Darkness achieved two significant milestones: the release of a self-titled album and signing a recording contract with the renowned electronic label Crunch Pod.
An Artist Shaped by the L.A. Scene

Photo Courtesy: Charles Richburg
For over 20 years, Charles Richburg has been a key figure in the goth and industrial music scenes of Los Angeles. His extensive experience and deep connection with these subcultures have allowed him to craft music that speaks to the heart of darkness—both as a metaphor and an emotional experience. His project, Let There Be Darkness, blends various genres, from the pulsating beats of techno-EBM (Electronic Body Music) fusion to the driving rhythms of industrial and electro synth-pop. These distinct styles are unified by his thematic exploration of religion, suffering, and existential dread.
At the core of Richburg’s music is the idea that darkness can be more than just a symbol of despair. He transforms it into a realm of exploration, where listeners are invited to confront and question their own beliefs, particularly those rooted in traditional religious symbolism. Concepts such as hell and eternal suffering are often explored in his tracks, presenting a soundtrack for those who dare to delve into these deeper, sometimes uncomfortable subjects.
The Release of the Self-Titled Album
The latest self-titled album from Let There Be Darkness marks a pivotal moment in Richburg’s career. The album serves not only as a reflection of his journey but as a new evolution of his sound. This release embodies the culmination of years spent refining his craft, experimenting with different genres, and exploring the broader themes that have become a hallmark of his music. The album presents a diverse array of tracks that challenge the boundaries of SDM while retaining the signature dark atmosphere that fans have come to expect.
Listeners of this new album will find themselves immersed in a complex landscape where haunting beats meet provocative lyrics. Richburg’s vocals lead listeners through an audio journey that spans the spectrum of human emotion, from rage and despair to contemplative reflection. The fusion of his previous musical influences with fresh ideas in this album shows that Let There Be Darkness is a project that refuses to stagnate. Instead, it evolves with each release, pushing further into uncharted territory while remaining deeply rooted in its foundational themes.
A Partnership with Crunch Pod

Photo Courtesy: Charles Richburg
In addition to the album’s release, Charles Richburg has reached a new milestone by signing a recording contract with Crunch Pod, a label known for its focus on underground electronic music. Crunch Pod’s reputation for working with boundary-pushing artists aligns perfectly with the ethos of Let There Be Darkness. This partnership signals a new era for Richburg’s project, one in which his innovative sound will have the opportunity to reach an even broader audience.
Crunch Pod’s influence in the electronic music world cannot be understated. As a label that prides itself on cultivating groundbreaking and avant-garde sounds, it provides Let There Be Darkness with the perfect platform to expand and experiment. The upcoming E.P., set to be released later this year under Crunch Pod’s banner, is already generating excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. This new chapter promises to push the boundaries of SDM even further, introducing elements that will surprise and captivate both old and new listeners.
The Evolution of Let There Be Darkness
The signing with Crunch Pod and the release of a self-titled album are just the latest in a series of achievements for Let There Be Darkness. Since 2021, Richburg has consistently put out singles and E.P.s that have captured the imagination of a dedicated fanbase. Each release builds upon the last, showing an artist who is unafraid to explore the darker side of existence while constantly pushing his sound in new directions. His music doesn’t just reflect the pain and suffering of the human experience—it challenges listeners to confront these emotions head-on.
Let There Be Darkness has earned its place as one of the leading voices in the goth and industrial scenes, and its influence is only set to grow. By combining dark, religious symbolism with innovative electronic music, Charles Richburg has created a space for listeners to explore themes often left untouched by mainstream artists.
Looking to the Future
As Let There Be Darkness enters this new phase of its journey, fans have much to look forward to. With the self-titled album now available and a new E.P. on the horizon, the partnership with Crunch Pod ensures that Richburg’s project will continue to evolve in exciting and unexpected ways. For those who are drawn to the darker, more mysterious aspects of music, Let There Be Darkness offers an unparalleled experience, blending powerful themes with genre-defying sounds.
As Richburg continues to pioneer Satanic Dance Music, he remains a compelling figure in the underground electronic scene, pushing boundaries and challenging listeners to reconsider what darkness truly means. To stay connected with Let There Be Darkness and explore the latest music and updates, visit the official link page at Let There Be Darkness on Linktree.
Published by: Martin De Juan