English post-rock trio Esben and the Witch have released two new songs in advance of their new album Nowhere, which is set to drop on November 16th, as reported by CMU. “Dull Gret” and “The Unspoiled”contains plenty of brooding experimental rock and ethereal post-rock breakdowns, with lead singer Rachel Davies throwing down some incredible vocal lines that will make the hairs of the back of your neck stand up.

“Dull Gret” begins with a throbbing bassline from Davies, eventually picking up steam with some cutting guitar riffs from Thomas Fisher and slamming drum rolls from Daniel Copeman. “The Unspoiled” is a doomier track, beginning with some Black Sabbath style guitar riffs and pounding drums before picking up steam. Davies delivers some excellent vocals on this song, nailing a sweet and dreamy vocal line to compliment another sturdy bassline. The song slowly builds into a powerful crescendo of raging guitar distortion and chaotic drum rolls before pulling everything back to dreamy post-rock soundscapes.

What makes Esben and the Witch such an interesting band is that they keep a very dynamic approach to their songwriting, allowing for a great combination of roaring metal and soothing post-rock. This blend of styles keeps the listener on their toes and engaged in the song all the way through.

In terms of lyrical inspiration, Rachel Davies had this to say about what inspired her to write “The Unspoiled” stating that the song was “inspired by ancient, enduring visions of a utopian garden, a world unspoiled, before war and devastation, where freedom and liberation rule. The world at large and our worlds within, both teeter on the brink of self-destruction. This serves as a reminder, as a plea, to hold on and not let go”.

Esben and the Witch’s last release was in the form of the excellent Older Terrors, which came out in 2016.

You can listen to “Dull Gret” and “The Unspoiled” in the player below.

Photo credit Raymond Flotat