Psychedelic Witchcraft certainly doesn’t relax much in terms of activity. Back in the early stages of this year, the compilation/re-recording collection “Magick Rites and Spells” which featured moments of their 2015 demo along with some covers was initially thought to be a new release (by myself anyway, I now correct that assumption nearly a year on!) and served as a reminder of what the band has done and what they are capable of doing. “Sound Of The Wind” is the culmination of what the band has been cooking up with their mysterious vibes and classically influenced, doom and occult seasoned expressive musical approach. The true successor to 2016’s impressive “The Vision” sees Psychedelic Witchcraft further cement their presence as a band to keep a keen eye on as the Tuscan four piece only seems to be getting better.

At 38 minutes, this is a relatively short release in terms of run time when compared to other similar artists, but how that time is used is what really matters here. “Maat” is simple, atmospheric and utterly pointless instrumental/sample laden space filler which really should have just been merged with the following track, but you’re all sick of me saying this over and over, so we shall simply move on. The heavily Sabbathian tainted “Lords Of the War” follows up, adding that dark and oppressive air, really upping the pressure by lowering the mood but even when it suddenly comes alive with a real vibrant pulse and feel to it, the track still retains that oppressive air. The slight seductive hint to the vocal tone, combined with that retro-rock/blues kick to the sound and style really works well and it’s a real statement of intent for a ‘starting track’.

“Wild We Go” has that 70’s flair to it. The fat, bluesy groove a la Led Zep, accompanied by a softer, more melodic vocal delivery gives it a different edge and when you add in that rock crunch and punchy feel to the tone and flow, it does fit together well. Hook laden choruses, harmony vocals and a slight shift into more Hendrix-like realms towards the end make this an interesting number. “Sound Of the Wind” has a slower, more hypnotic quality to it. The subtle percussive effects and the gentle delivery and hazy vocals, eerily reminiscent of Kroh give this track a little something compared to the previous tracks – it has that minimal input, maximum effect payoff feel – the restrained approach does more than enough. “Turn Me On” picks the pace up again with even more Hendrix-like flair and fire in the sound, approach and delivery. Sweet sounding guitar tones laden with melodic qualities and gratuitous use of fuzz, coupled with the animated vocal delivery really bring things alive and the seductive edge to the lyrics and theme certainly works… Think Foxy Lady by Jimi and just go from there!

“Rising On The Edge” and “The Warrens” are pretty much like the previous tracks on this release, that spooky feel mixed into the seventies styled rock delivery which Psychedelic Witchcraft do so well – bursts of Hammond Organs, dynamic vocal deliveries and some sweet, ‘Bitchin’ blues style soloing just make them a treat to listen to, but the real gem of this release is the final three tracks. “Sin Of Mine” is a classic feeling blues number which has that rhythmic hook which snares you right from the off. Expressive and emotional vocal and guitar lines in the verses give way to more lively choruses which have a slight bounce to them and even though it may be predictable in parts, it progresses rather well, really picking up speed at the end of the track before it slips off. “Let me Be Myself” brings back the slower and more subtle approach, but it still has that bite in the delivery. Expressive musical melodies, passionate and sultry vocals, tightly controlled rhythms, it all links up well again and the surge towards the end, climaxing in a ripping solo caps it off nicely, allowing the flawless transition into the final track “Horizons”. The instrumental track which feels more like a refrain of sorts continues the melodic approach which surfaced in the previous track and it keeps on going. The sound, tone, feel, pace and overall delivery is spot on and the track really displays how good Psychedelic Witchcraft are with their ability to conjure up enticing melodies.

Overall, “Sounds Of The Wind” isn’t simply howling and rustling and possibly your bin being knocked over into the street. It’s an enticing release which lures you in and keeps you hooked. Short in length, making it great for the replay factor, rich in sound and imagination captivating, it is definitely the mark of a band who will be one to keep a keen eye on in the future.

(8/10 Fraggle)

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