I always liked Witchery and they are probably my favorite when it comes to the blackened thrash metal bands. It’s unfortunate, really, that the name is a victim of circumstance, not more popular and successful because its members are busy with other bands (guitarist Patrik Jensen is in The Haunted, Sharlee D'Angelo is Arch Enemy’s bassist, and Opeth keeps Martin Axe busy behind the drums).

Been 4 years since the last album “Don’t Fear The Reaper”, and with “Witchkrieg”, the witchburners (the title of the 1999 E.P.) are back with a vengeance, and new singer Legion (formerly with Marduk) replacing Toxine.

Fanning the flames to the "Witchkrieg" fire are several guests; Kerry King from Slayer appears on the opening title track, Hank Shermann (Mercyful Fate) obviously (to the well trained ear) lets his unmistakable talents stamp the solo for ‘The God Who Fell From Earth’, chaotic searing leads by Gary Holt and Lee Altus (Exodus) send "The Reaver" into a blazing tailspin, another King Diamond alumni, Andy LaRocque, adds his melodic touch to "From Dead To Worse", and finally Dark Angel’s Jim Durkin solos on ‘One Foot In The Grave’.

Along with great artwork and creative lyrics from the grave, Witchery always come up with these really cool, groovy thrash tunes with complimenting demonic vocals; ‘Witchkrieg’, ‘The Reaver’, ‘Hellhound’, and ‘Witch Hunter’, as with mid paced slashers like ‘Conqueror’s Return’ and ‘Devil Rides Out’. Legion’s delivery is pretty close to Toxines although he does emote a little more personality (ie: ‘Witchkrieg’) at times given the song.

Hopefully the coven will have more time to do some dates in support of this album, and please do come back to North America.