Witchery - Restless and Dead

Rare is the metal band that doesn't paste a gravely serious tone on its leather-clad sleeve -- which can be interpreted as a defensive measure against outsiders' criticism for being too unhip or entrenched in overtly angry or fantastical subject matter. But when a proudly heavy-as-hell outfit stomps down metal lane in clunky boots, with chains clanking and tongue firmly in cheek, it draws a double-take from fans and foes alike. Enter Witchery, a death/thrash supergroup of sorts (sporting members of Mercyful Fate, Satanic Slaughter, the Haunted, and Séance), whose debut Restless And Dead plays fast and loose with metal clichés -- graveyards, skeletons, witches, grim reapers, exorcisms -- putting them next to fellow funny guys Strapping Young Lad (parodic metal mockery), Type O Negative (poker-faced self-flagellation), and Cradle Of Filth (punny and poetic indulgences). Read More