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EP Review, Peter Lawson chronicles the tale of The Witchfinder

 




Photo Credit: OOB Records


Words by Anselm Anderson


Multi-instrumentalist Peter Lawson shares the story of a 17th-century witchfinder and his accomplice on his latest EP, "The Witchfinder."


The EP is inspired by the true story of Matthew Hopkins and John Stearne, two witch-finders intent on causing chaos and destruction during the Civil War in 17th-century England. They hunted down suspected witches under the Witchfinder Act of 1542 before presenting them for trial.


Lawson produces over half an hour of seven tracks, using traditional medieval instruments like the bodhrán and mandolin to depict their horrible deeds. Lawson combines folk, blues, and progressive music elements to craft a distinctive style that resonates with the essence of that period.


The darker electronic elements come into play with a distorted monologue in the opening track "Saint Vitus Dance," which captures the innocence of the time before tragedy struck. The narrative turns unexpectedly in "1542," as the music intensifies with aggressive metal guitar sounds and eerie breakdowns, depicting the manhunt. The music transitions through dazzling keys and rock ambience on the title track "The Witchfinder" before the blues-laden "The Witch's Pyre" signals a tragic turn of events. The album comes full circle with the folk song "The Setting Sun", which features vocals for the first time.


"The Witchfinder" reminds me of something Wishbone Ash and King Crimson may have attempted to compose in their heydays. Lawson is a talented musician with an ear for producing tracks through poignancy and depth. Also a tremendous storyteller, Lawson has recorded an album prog aficionados may consider a listen.




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Copyright: Anselm Anderson ©


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