Peter Lawson's almost instrumental album The Witchfinder is based on the true story of Matthew Hopkins, the self-proclaimed Witch Finder who terrorised parts of England during the time of the English Civil War in the 17th century. Peter Lawson (guitars, bass guitar, keys, mandolin and sometimes vocals) mixes progressive rock with folk and other musical genres. Opening track Saint Vitus Dance almost sounds medieval, while the guitar solo is simply stunning and follow up 1542 dives into metal, being an instrumental guitar killer song; but the title track surely features the best guitar solo of the entire album, making it a metal-infused song for sure; so play that one loud, if you can! The Witch's Pyre reminds me of good old Black Sabbath as it is a slow, doomy song packed with distorted guitars and the title is of course also very Black Sabbath-like.... Other musical influences like Pink Floyd or The Doors can be heard in songs like Third Eye Blind and The Setting Sun; the latter being very inventive and weird indeed. The Witchfinder is an extraordinary album showcasing a creative usage of several instruments that create a very atmospheric, progressive piece of work, which certainly is NOT to everyone's taste, but if you give it a try and a fair chance, I am sure that you will get the "brilliance" of this album. Listening tip: The Witchfinder. ***+ Martien Koolen (edited by Dave Smith) Where to buy? |
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