The Second Coming of Black Sabbath!
garyhalloween | Knightdale, NC United States | 06/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The debut from Swedish 70's-retro quartet Witchcraft is an absoulutely stunning example of how less can truly be more. I read that the 11 songs were recorded in a basement with vintage instruments and analog recording equipment. As a result, the overall sound may be a bit thin, BUT this actually enhances the music, giving a it a much more raw, earthy, warm feel, compared to today's over-produced, slick and sterile music-for-money. "Witchcraft" actually sounds as if it were recorded in 1970!
The album (CD doesn't seem to fit here) opens with my personal favorite song, "Witchcraft". An infectious, hypnotic, introduction to the dark yet melodic things to come. Reportedly, Witchcraft released the infectious "No Angel or Demon" as an independent single, and the group was signed to the mighty Rise Above Records on the strength of this song alone. Another highlight is "Her Sisters They Were Weak". A tale of a king and his three daughters, and the selling of his soul. What impresses me most about the songwriting is that Witchcraft keeps it simple, yet with enough hooks and dynamics to keep each song interesting. There are tempo changes, flute, even some backward masking vocals! Vocalist Magnus Pelander, by the way, fits the music perfectly. Somewhat similar to a young Ozzy, on the first Sabbath album.
Speaking of Sabbath, there are definite influences of Sabbath, but also Black Widow, Pentagram, and even early progressive rock. Also, I have found that the music of Witchcraft has grown on me with each listen. Infectious! This has always been a sign of a true masterpiece to me.
So, if you are into music from rock's Golden Age, the early 70's, then I highly recommend "Witchcraft". Two final words: BUY IT!"
The 70's live again!
John F. Lishok III | Factoryville, Pa. United States | 04/24/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Witchcraft, a group of Swedish lads, appears to have found a time machine and transported themselves back into the early 70's. Their sound is reminiscent of Pentagram with some touches of Sabbath and Tull. A quality listen, highly recommended if you love that 70's rock sound."
CD or Vinyl?
DevilsEve666 | GA | 11/20/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Why is it this page says its a 180 gram vinyl, but then it says it is also a cd, very confusing...is this vinyl or a cd?"
Track Listings (11) - Disc #1