“Lancashire’s white knights deliver a luminous rock odyssey”
Hailing from Lancashire, Wytch Hazel returns with V: Lamentations, released July 4, 2025, marking their fifth full-length since their enchanting 2016 debut Prelude. Led by founder Colin Hendra (vocals, guitar, drums), alongside Alex Haslam (guitar), Andy Shackleton (bass), and Aaron Hay (drums), the quartet has evolved from II: Sojourn (2018) and III: Pentecost (2020) to the masterful IV: Sacrament (2023), culminating in this self-recorded gem. Infused with 70s rock influences and a nod to Bible-inspired themes; though the band shuns the “Christian” label. Lamentations reflects the struggles of post-lockdown life, blending nostalgic warmth with fresh vitality. To me, their image and sound first evoked a serious soundtrack to Monty Python and the Holy Grail, a quirky yet fitting impression.
The album bursts open with “I Lament,” a high-energy start that sets the tone, followed by “Run The Race,” which gallops with uplifting momentum. “The Citadel” marches with sonic and lyrical power, a fitting choice for the final pre-release single. “Elements” shifts to an acoustic “I am the king, come find me,” ending with a soaring solo, while “The Demon Within” deepens the mood with darker lyrics over acoustic undertones. “Racing Forwards” pushes through with a focused cadence, and the instrumental “Elixir” bridges the album’s two halves seamlessly. “Woven” hooks from the first chord—drums and riffs begging for headbanging, Colin’s voice pulling you in—followed by the epic ballad “Heavy Load,” which tackles self-doubt and faith with uplifting resolve. “Healing Power” closes with a guitar intro that feels restorative on its own. The tracklist flows beautifully, a testament to the band’s meticulous arrangement.
At 45 minutes, Lamentations is a cohesive journey, its production capturing a classic yet personal vibe despite the challenges of self-recording amid life’s demands. Colin’s perfectionism shines through, though the process tested him with blown equipment and personal trials. The album’s honest songwriting, rooted in struggle and hope, resonates deeply, with “Woven” and “Heavy Load” standing out as emotional peaks. While it diverges from my usual listens, Wytch Hazel fills a unique space in my collection, and I’m eager to explore their back catalog and await VI.
Wytch Hazel brings light to a dark universe with Lamentations—a band to cherish and follow.
Rating: 9.5/10
Key Tracks: “Woven” and “Healing Power”
For Fans of: Angel Witch, Pagan Altar, Tanith
Buy it and Stream it: wytchhazel.bandcamp.com/album/v-lamentations
Follow: @wytchhazel