(Cargo Records)

Spellbinding-stoner-punk: a new genre

Vermont based Witch are the new band of stoner-rock legend J Mascis, however don’t expect Dinosaur Jr., as this time Mascis is playing drums. Rather, this is an album of garage punk that is borderline psychedelic, and at times does push towards the stoner-rock genre. Don’t let the usage of the words garage or punk deter you though, there are some seriously interestingly dynamics within this record. Songs range from walls of sound, to jams based on purposeful repetition, while at other times the album classically rock & roll. There are moments of dirty, mutated beauty, fuzzy crescendos, and intelligent anger. Unfortunately though, as momentarily interesting as some parts of the album are, there is a distinct lack of melody. Certainly, you may find yourself applauding the songwriting, but whether it is something that will ultimately stay with you is a completely different story. For the long-haired hippie (or ex-long haired hippy) however, this may be perfect.

DAVID FANNON

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