Esben and the Witch : Violet Cries :: Review
The current popularity of all things macabre has necessitated a proper soundtrack that could accompany the cinema verite that features werewolves and vampires in love. Cue Brighton band, Esben and the Witch, a witch-house trio that takes its name from a Danish fairytale, who trade in textural, multilayered rock on their debut, “Violet Cries.” “Violet Cries” offers a full coffer of misery with ill-fated protagonists and song titles that reference medical maladies (Argryia, Chorea) and Greek literature (Eumenides). When Rachel Davies’ vocals are audible above the din, she even manages to sound faintly like Siouxsie Sioux crossed with PJ Harvey.
While Esben and the Witch have their aesthetics down pat, there’s a bit of monotony to the proceedings. Swirly, grinding guitars and chorus-less songs can only take you so far and that makes “Violet Cries” feel a bit of the same at times. There’s some brightening of the album during the hazy “Light Streams” that is interrupted by a sinister vocal but mostly the songs on “Violet Cries” remain set in shades of gray. “Chorea” meanders far too long in the abyss but thankfully; “Warpath” seems to prep things for the epic maelstrom of “Eumenides” which demonstrates all cylinders are firing at once. The strung out vibe of “Swans” closes the album on a fatalistic note further emphasizing the dark wit of the fairytale origins of the band. Apparently there are no saviors in the world populated by Esben and the Witch, just more lost souls.
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Esben and the Witch’s “Violet Cries” is available February 8th on Matador Records.
