The debut single from the Swedish doom merchants, "Witchcraft," arrived in 1983 with a surprisingly raw and unpolished sound that belied their later, more refined output. This release quickly became a cult favorite among fans of heavy, vintage-sounding rock.
- Recorded at a small studio in their hometown, the single was produced by the band themselves. It features two tracks, "Witchcraft" and "Grave New World," neither of which would appear on their later albums. The single gained a modest following through independent radio play and tape trading, eventually selling out its limited pressing of 500 copies.
- The single was released on Rise Above Records, a label founded by the band's manager. It was a bold move for a new band to launch with a single rather than a full-length album. Glastonbury Festival organizers reportedly considered booking the band based on this single, but ultimately decided against it due to the band's lack of live experience at the time.
- Upon its release, "Witchcraft" received praise from underground fanzines for its authentic 70s vibe and heavy, hypnotic riffing. Critics at the time noted the raw production as a deliberate choice, separating it from the more polished sound of mainstream hard rock. The single's B-side, "Grave New World," showcased a more experimental side with psychedelic undertones.
Witchcraft is a hard rock band from Sweden, known for their retro sound and heavy riffs. This 1983 release placed them among the burgeoning doom metal scene in the UK and Europe.
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