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Written by Marc Farr Thursday, 27 November 2014 13:30

Heavy and raw, The Wytches prove that true underground music still exists and thrives.

 

 

 

Hailing from Brighton, U.K., The Wytches have released their first full-length offering. With a very DIY, John Waters–type sound, this album could be the soundtrack to one of the director’s films. From surf rock to punk to metalcore, Kristian Bell (vocals, guitar), Gianna Honey (drums), and Daniel Rumsey (bass) blend the genres together, resulting in an eerie, gothic-sounding set of songs.

Produced by Bill-Ryder Jones, the production here is raw, loose, and just dirty enough to do the material justice. Musically, the combination of genres results in an eclectic finished product. Heavy and raw, The Wytches prove that true underground music still exists and thrives. Of the 13 songs offered up here, spotlight tracks include “Wire-Framed Mattress,” with its cryptic lyrics, and “Digsaw,” which sports a dark, surfer sound.

Fans of dark punk, this album was made for you. Like Man or Astroman? combined with early X, The Wytches are something of an acquired taste. Overall, the album is raw, eclectic, and dark—a riveting combination for the right audience. C+ | Marc Farr