Angel Witch was formed in London in 1976 as one of the pioneering bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). Their influence goes beyond multiple metal subgenres, including thrash, doom, and speed metal. The band’s highest UK chart position only reached number 75, so they were a band more revered for influence than commercial success.
The Band’s Evolution and Revival
Angel Witch’s career was marked by numerous lineup changes: over 30 musicians passed through the band. A separate version of Angel Witch even existed in the United States at one point.
The modern era of Angel Witch began in the early 2000s after years of turbulence. Founding member Kevin Heybourne reassembled the band, and this led to the release of their 2000 compilation album ‘Resurrection.’ This was followed by their fourth studio album, ‘As Above, So Below’ (2011). The new lineup featured Heybourne (guitar/vocals), Will Palmer (bass), Bill Steer (guitar), and Andrew Prestidge (drums).
Angel Witch’s Cultural Impact
Angel Witch’s self-titled debut album (1980) is regarded as a cornerstone of NWOBHM. The title track received major airplay on BBC Radio 1’s Friday Rock Show. This exposure helped the song become an anthem of the movement.
Their influence transcended music and reached a new audience in 2009 when their song ‘Angel Witch’ was featured in the action-adventure video game Brütal Legend. According to Louder Sound, Death, Celtic Frost, Anthrax, and Slayer cited them as an inspiration.
Where is Angel Witch Now?
Their 2019 single ‘Don’t Turn Your Back’ revived their career and reached number 14 on the Kerrang! Rock Chart. The band’s official Facebook page confirms that they remain active in 2024 and continue to perform live, though no new album announcements have been made.
