The remix shifts the perspective of the lyrics from a "high-camp" dance anthem to a more literal "morality tale" .
: The pitch-shifted vocals of Smith and Petras become deeper and more resonant. This highlights the "double-edged" effect of the original’s layered vocal production, making the whispered backing vocals feel more ghostly . Sam Smith - Unholy ft. Kim Petras (slowed reverb)
: The song is written in C♯ Phrygian dominant (or F♯ minor), a scale often associated with Arabic and Indian musical traditions . Slowing the track makes the minor 2nd intervals in the bassline more prominent, increasing the sense of tension and dissonance . The remix shifts the perspective of the lyrics
: The industrial, metallic hyperpop synths and "grinding" bassline, influenced by the late producer Sophie , take on a thicker, more tactile quality when slowed . The Gregorian choir-like background vocals gain a massive, cathedral-like scale due to the added reverb . Lyrical and Emotional Impact : The song is written in C♯ Phrygian
The "slowed + reverb" version of and Kim Petras 's Grammy-winning hit "Unholy" transforms the original's high-energy club atmosphere into a dark, immersive sonic experience . By lowering the tempo and adding extensive artificial resonance, this version emphasizes the song's sinister undertones and complex production . Musical Characteristics
The "slowed + reverb" edit significantly alters the track's original 131 BPM tempo, creating a heavier, more atmospheric feel .