Montalo’s review of 2009………and beyond

What an amazing year 2009 turned out to be for Witchfynde

The major news of 2009 was, of course, the return of Luther Beltz. Since Luther returned to front the band (which actually materialised towards the end of 2008) we have not only been having a great time but it has also given a “considerable edge” to our live performances.

We kicked off the year in explosive style with an awesome appearance at the Up the Hammers Festival in Athens. It was our first ever trip to Greece and we were totally overwhelmed by both the amazing reception that we received and by the tear gas that was let off in the streets. What a fantastic unforgettable experience.

We spent the rest of the year gigging around the UK where it was great to meet up with so many of our old friends as well as winning over a young, new audience.

The year culminated in an appearance at the tremendous Hard Rock Hell III in Prestatyn, North Wales where again we received a fantastic reception from the ultimate metal audience.

Metal Hammer wrote:
Imagine if it had been different. Imagine if Nottingham NWOBHM quartet had gone on to become one of the biggest metal bands of all time, flying around the world in jets, hosting radio shows, a mantelpiece brimming with awards. What if we were here watching five lads from West Ham who released their debut in the same year as Witchfynde’s ‘Give Em Hell’ and band whose careers hadn’t unfolded quite how they planned.

We watch Witchfynde hammer out their grade A retro metal; a couple are bald with pub landlord arms and prescription sunglasses and guitarist Montalo looks like a monochromatically dressed version of any given rock dad. Google images of the band and there’s not much between them and NWOBHM kings Iron Maiden, and when you listen it will surprise the uninitiated quite how good the music is: a blend of ‘Sad Wings Of Destiny’-era Judas Priest sonics and Dark Diamond Head songwriting.

And with the great hooks, flawless vocals and great crisp single-guitar attack you wonder why Witchfynde never became much more than also-rans.

As well as a great sound the guys are clearly having fun, promoted from the back room of some King’s Arms pub to this handsome stage in North Wales, they smile and quip and dodge about the stage like old mates having the time of their life.

Classic Rock wrote

Witchfynde – More NWOBHM genius, with the amazing Montalo starring on guitar. A mirthsome moment occurred when the singer proclaimed: “Mr Lars Ulrich said to me, when you get to Prestatyn you must play my favourite Witchfynde song.” Which they did. ‘Twas Leaving Nadir, of course – one of the great undiscovered NWOBHM classics.

The lavishly produced “Hell Bent for Cooking” featuring the recipe for my favourite breakfast treat – Devil’s Porridge was published on 24th November. For more details visit www.hellbentforcooking.com

And on to 2010: