Mid-sized bushshrike that usually looks completely dark gray, though a darker black hood may be discernible in good light. Found in a wide variety of savanna and woodland habitats. Pairs skulk in the understory, sometimes emerging to the top of a bush to sing. The song is normally given as a pair duet: a mix of higher, rising “chreee” notes and lower “chuwit” notes. Also gives ratcheting and frog-like calls. Separated from other black boubous by habitat and vocalizations.