Talented blues-inspired psychedelic rock

Nashville, Tennessee natives All Them Witches have released another album full of bluesy, psychedelic rock. ATW is their fifth studio album, and it definitely does their already impressive catalog justice. It’s a retro sounding album, with sounds that are definitely influenced by the rock of the ’70s. The group consists of Robby Staebler on drums, Charles Michael Parks Jr. on bass, guitar and vocals, Ben McLeod on guitar and Jonathan Draper on the keyboard. Each member brings different talents to this album that make it shine. ATW is a beautiful album that will certainly be remembered for years to come.

The first song on the album is “Fishbelly 86 Onions.” It begins with a catchy guitar riff, before launching into some obviously blues-inspired, talking like vocals. It’s one of the longer songs on the album, coming in at 6:02, but the length comes from the impressive use of instruments by the band. The memorable guitar riff continues throughout the song, with a great drumbeat backing it up. Though it may not be the best song on the album, the long instrumental parts are a great example of the pure talent the group has. The second song is “Workhorse,” which has a slight southern-rock feeling to it. Parks’ vocals are beautiful in this song, showing just how diverse his musical talents and ranges are.

Some other especially notable songs on ATW are “Diamond” and “Harvest Feast.” “Diamond” starts with a Bond-esque guitar lick, accompanied by a steady drumbeat. The vocals are low but melodic, sounding haunting, which fits perfectly with the lyrics. “Hail the way King / Though he’s old and grey / The body moves / But the mind’s unchained.” It’s a strangely beautiful song that is easily the standout of the album. “Harvest Feast” has a more bluesy feeling to it, thanks to a wailing guitar. It’s also the longest song on the album by far, coming in at 10:45. It’s another example of Parks’ impressive vocal range, as his melodic voice in this song is a drastic difference from the previous one of “Diamond.” Though much too long to be a single, “Harvest Feast” is definitely a must-listen from ATW as it shows just how talented of a band All Them Witches are.

The final song on the album is “Rob’s Dream.” It’s a slower, more psychedelic song that, like the title indicates, has a dreamy feeling to it. The song picks up a little in the middle, before going back into the slower, dream-like style. “Rob’s Dream” definitely has some Pink Floyd influences to it, and it’s a surprisingly great way to wrap up the album.

ATW is available for purchase now, and All Them Witches will be touring the US this fall and winter.