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Angel Witch
Angel Witch
Angel Witch
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Angel Witch are a British heavy metal band which formed in London in 1976, recognised as one of the pioneering groups of the new wave of British heavy metal (NWOBHM).[1]

Key Information

Originally established as Lucifer by guitarist and vocalist Kevin Heybourne, the band evolved through various line-ups before settling on the name Angel Witch in 1978, with Heybourne as the constant driving force. Their self-titled debut album, Angel Witch, released in 1980 by Bronze Records, is widely regarded as a seminal work in the NWOBHM genre, featuring the standout track of the same name, which gained significant airplay on BBC Radio 1's Friday Rock Show.

Despite critical acclaim, the band faced challenges with management and record label issues, leading to their initial disbandment in 1982. Angel Witch reformed in 1984 and have since experienced multiple hiatuses and line-up changes, with Heybourne leading the group through periods of renewed activity, including headline performances at festivals such as Bloodstock Open Air in 2009 and the release of their fifth studio album, Angel of Light, in 2019 via Metal Blade Records.

Mark Deming of AllMusic stated: "Like most of their peers, Angel Witch combined the basic lessons of Black Sabbath with the energy and speed of Motörhead." Known for their dark, melodic sound and occult-themed lyrics, Angel Witch remain a respected name in heavy metal circles. They have been acknowledged as an influence by many bands of the then-emerging thrash, speed, doom and extreme metal genres.[2][3]

Biography

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Formation

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The band formed, originally under the name of Lucifer, with guitarist and vocalist Kevin Heybourne, guitarist Rob Downing, drummer Steve Jones, and bassist Barry Clements. Lucifer split and Jones joined Bruce Dickinson to form Speed. The remnants of Lucifer became Angel Witch, with the exceptions of Clements, who was replaced by Kevin Riddles, and Jones, who was replaced by Steve Coleman. The following year Downing left the band.

Limited chart success, brief record deal

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Angel Witch's first song to achieve mainstream popularity was "Baphomet", which was included on a compilation titled Metal for Muthas. This song drew a fair amount of attention to the band, and they signed a recording deal with EMI. However, the deal was cancelled, due to manager Ken Heybourne refusing to hand Angel Witch over to professional management, and the poor performance of their first single released under the EMI label in 1980. Entitled "Sweet Danger", it lasted a single week on the UK Singles Chart.[4] This was their only UK chart listing and despite being quite an achievement for a NWOBHM group, spending a single week at No. 75 (the lowest position in the charts)[5] meant they were listed as the "least successful chart act of all time" in the Guinness Book of Hit Records. This same feat was repeated by fellow NWOBHM group Grand Prix with their Keep on Believing 7" in 1983.[6]

Debut album

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In 1980, Bronze Records picked up the band and they recorded and released their debut album, self-titled Angel Witch.[4]

Break-ups and reunions

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Subsequent to the album's release, the band fell apart. Dave Hogg was fired, and Kevin Riddles left the band to form Tytan. Despite Heybourne's attempts to continue Angel Witch with other musicians, the end of the band was declared and he joined Deep Machine.

Angel Witch returned to activity in 1982, when Heybourne and two musicians from Deep Machine - namely vocalist Roger Marsden and drummer Ricky Bruce - left to assemble a new Angel Witch line-up together with bassist Jerry Cunningham. This line-up lasted a very short time, as Marsden's voice did not fit the style of the band very well. He was fired from the band and Heybourne assumed the vocals once more.

By 1983, the band had ceased its activities, and Heybourne moved to Blind Fury. In 1984, Angel Witch was once more brought to life, this time with the help of bassist Peter Gordelier (ex-Marquis De Sade), singer Dave Tattum and with Dave Hogg returning to the drums.[4] This line-up recorded the album Screamin' N' Bleedin'.[4] Dave Hogg was sacked again. He was replaced by Spencer Hollman.[4] With the new drummer they recorded Frontal Assault,[4] which deviated heavily from Angel Witch's previous albums, having many melodic elements.

Dave Tattum was released the same year and for a few years Angel Witch played as a trio on sporadic live performances. In 1989, they recorded a live album, entitled simply Live.[4]

Creation of American group

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Heybourne decided that it was in the band's best interest to move to the United States, but the other members had no way of accomplishing that, having stable lives in their home country. Thus, an American incarnation of Angel Witch was born. It was composed of Heybourne, bassist Jon Torres (Lȧȧz Rockit, Ulysses Siren), drummer Tom Hunting (Exodus) and guitarist Doug Piercy (Heathen, Anvil Chorus). This line-up functioned quite well, and soon the band had booked a fair number of shows throughout the US. However, Heybourne had some pending issues regarding immigration, and he was arrested one day before the first concert of the band. Without Heybourne, Angel Witch was dissolved.

New lineup in the 2000s and 2010s

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After the release of the Resurrection compilation album in 2000, the band intended to play together once more, but after a series of internal conflicts, Heybourne assembled another line-up, with new members. They were on the bill for the traditional Orange Goblin Christmas show at The Camden Underworld, London, on 20 December 2008. In 2009, their eponymous song "Angel Witch" was featured on the soundtrack of the action-adventure videogame, Brütal Legend.

In 2011, Angel Witch entered the studio to record their fourth studio album, entitled As Above, So Below, with Kevin Heybourne on guitar and vocals, Will Palmer on bass guitar and Andrew Prestidge on drums. They also returned to playing live, with Bill Steer on guitar, for second stage headline slot at Bloodstock Open Air in 2011.[7]

One-time Angel Witch bassist Jon Torres died on 3 September 2013 of a reported heart failure. He was 51 years old.[8]

The band toured and played festivals in 2015 and 2018.[9][10]

On 30 August 2019, the band released a new single, "Don't Turn Your Back" which debuted at number 17 on the Kerrang! Rock Chart before rising to 14 in its second and final week.[11]

On 4 July 2025, original keyboardist and bassist Kevin Riddles died from cancer at the age of 68.[12]

Legacy

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Mark Deming of AllMusic spoke of the band's impact on heavy metal: "In 1979, Angel Witch were one of the most promising bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, with a hardcore following and a modestly successful single under their belts. But like many fine bands of that movement, bad luck, bad management, and misunderstanding record companies forced them into early retirement."[13]

Angel Witch have been cited as an influence by many notable metal bands, including Metallica, Venom, Slayer, Anthrax, Testament, Celtic Frost, Death, Candlemass and Megadeth,[2][3] the latter of whose lead singer Dave Mustaine graced the February 2010 cover of Decibel magazine wearing an Angel Witch shirt.[14] Bands that have covered Angel Witch songs in concert or on record include Trouble ("Confused" live), Six Feet Under ("Confused" on Graveyard Classics), Blood Curse ("Angel Witch" on their debut album Sorceress), Onslaught ("Confused" on In Search of Sanity), Skull Fist ("Angel Witch" live), Battle Ram ("Angel Witch" on the Smash the Gates EP), S.A. Slayer ("Dr. Phibes" & "Angel Witch" live), Exodus ("Angel of Death" on Blood In, Blood Out as bonus track) and Amazing Maze, which is a one off album by Italian Power Metal band Labyrinth under a different name ("Angel Witch").[citation needed]

In 2007, German label Unbroken Records issued a Tribute to Angel Witch compilation album featuring 15 underground metal acts covering songs from the band's early singles and first three full-length releases.[15]

Members

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Main article: List of Angel Witch members

Current members

  • Kevin Heybourne – lead guitar, lead vocals (1976–1981, 1982–1983, 1984–1990, 1997–1998, 2000–2001, 2002–2003, 2008–present)
  • Will Palmer – bass (2008–present)
  • Jimmy Martin – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2015–present)
  • Fredrik Jansson – drums (2016–present)

Discography

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Studio albums

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Live albums

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  • Angel Witch Live (1990)
  • 2000: Live at the LA2 (2000)
  • Angel of Death: Live at East Anglia Rock Festival (2006)
  • Burn the White Witch - Live in London (2009)

Compilations

[edit]
  • Metal for Muthas (1980)
  • Doctor Phibes (1986)
  • Screamin' Assault (1988)
  • Resurrection (1998)
  • Sinister History (1999)

Extended plays and singles

[edit]
  • "Sweet Danger" (single) (1980)
  • Sweet Danger (EP) (1980)
  • "Angel Witch" (single) (1980)
  • "Loser" (single) (1981)
  • "Goodbye" (single) (1985)
  • They Wouldn't Dare (EP) (2004)
  • "Don't Turn Your Back" (single) (2019)

See also

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Angel Witch

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Angel Witch is a British heavy metal band formed in in 1978 by guitarist and vocalist Kevin Heybourne, emerging as one of the pioneering acts of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement with their self-titled debut album released in 1980 on , which is widely regarded as a genre classic featuring tracks like the title song that became an enduring anthem. The band, originally started as Lucifer in 1976, drew heavy influences from , Led Zeppelin, and , crafting a darker, faster, and more intense sound that helped redefine heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Throughout their career, Angel Witch has experienced frequent lineup changes while maintaining Heybourne as the sole constant member and creative force; notable past members include original bassist Kevin Riddles, who played on the debut album before departing in 1982 and passing away from cancer on July 4, 2025, at age 68, as well as guitarist Bill Steer (of Carcass fame) from 2010 to 2013. The current lineup features Heybourne alongside rhythm guitarist Jimmy Martin, bassist Will Palmer (since 2008), and drummer Fredrik Jansson. Their discography includes five studio albums, starting with the eponymous 1980 release that contributed to the NWOBHM compilation Metal for Muthas, followed by Screamin' and Bleedin' (1985, recorded but released later), Frontal Assault (1986 under the alias Angel of Death due to legal issues), As Above, So Below (2012), and Angel of Light (2019 on Metal Blade Records), which marked their return to critical acclaim with eight tracks blending classic heavy metal riffs and occult-themed lyrics. Angel Witch's influence extends to extreme metal acts, with bands like Celtic Frost citing them as foundational, and they continue to tour actively, including a 2025 European run supporting King Diamond alongside Paradise Lost and Unto Others. Despite periods of breakup and revival, the band's commitment to authentic NWOBHM roots—characterized by dual-guitar harmonies, powerful vocals, and themes of the supernatural—has solidified their legacy as cult heroes in the heavy metal scene.

History

Formation and early years

Angel Witch originated in 1976 in London, England, when guitarist and vocalist Kevin Heybourne formed the band under the name Lucifer. The initial lineup included Heybourne alongside guitarist Rob Downing, drummer Steve Jones, and bassist Barry Clements. In 1978, following lineup shifts including replacements on bass and drums, the band renamed itself Angel Witch with Heybourne on guitar and vocals, Rob Downing on rhythm guitar, bassist Kevin "Skids" Riddles, and drummer Dave Hogg. This core lineup drew from influences like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest, crafting a sound rooted in heavy riffs and occult-themed lyrics that aligned with the emerging New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. In their early years, Angel Witch honed their material through gigs at South London pubs, such as the Green Man in Plumstead and Crackers, building a local following in the vibrant NWOBHM scene. These performances, often raw and energetic, helped solidify their reputation among underground metal enthusiasts in the late 1970s. The band recorded a series of demo tapes between 1978 and 1979, capturing tracks like "Baphomet" and "Sorceress" on rudimentary equipment in members' homes, which showcased their aggressive style and garnered attention from promoters. These recordings led to their inclusion on the influential 1980 Metal for Muthas compilation, prompting a signing with the independent label Bronze Records for their initial singles.

Debut album and initial success

Angel Witch's self-titled debut album was recorded in late 1979 at Roundhouse Studios in London, under the production of Martin Smith. The sessions captured the band's raw energy and occult-tinged heavy metal sound, with the lineup of Kevin Heybourne on guitar and vocals, Rob Downing on guitar, Kevin Riddles on bass, and Dave Hogg on drums. This recording marked a significant step for the band, transitioning from local gigs to a professional studio environment following their early formation. Downing left the band shortly after the album's recording. The album was released on Bronze Records in April 1980, showcasing tracks like the title song "Angel Witch," the demonic "Baphomet," and the aggressive "Extermination," among others such as "Atlantis" and "Gorgon." Prior to the full album's launch, "Baphomet" appeared on the influential Metal for Muthas compilation in March 1980, which featured emerging NWOBHM acts and significantly raised the band's profile within the UK metal scene. The compilation's success helped position Angel Witch alongside contemporaries like Iron Maiden and Saxon, drawing attention from fans and critics alike. Commercial reception was modest but promising for a debut in the burgeoning NWOBHM movement. The lead single "Sweet Danger" b/w "Flight Nineteen" entered the UK Singles Chart at No. 75, holding the position for one week in 1980, providing the band with their first taste of national chart exposure despite limited promotion. Bronze Records had signed Angel Witch to a brief deal earlier that year, enabling the album's distribution and supporting initial success through radio play and live appearances. Following the release, the band embarked on promotional tours across the UK, including slots on the Metal for Muthas tour and performances at festivals like Reading Rock, where they shared stages with established acts and built a dedicated following. These efforts solidified their place in the early 1980s heavy metal landscape.

1980s line-up changes and break-ups

Following the release of their self-titled debut album in 1980, Angel Witch encountered internal tensions that prompted significant lineup changes, including the departure of drummer Dave Hogg and bassist Kevin Riddles. Riddles left in 1981 to co-found the band Tytan alongside drummer Dave Dufort. These shifts contributed to the band's initial disbandment in 1982, with Heybourne briefly joining the group Deep Machine before the project folded. The band remained inactive until 1984, when Kevin Heybourne reformed Angel Witch with a new lineup featuring vocalist Dave Tattum, bassist Pete Gordelier, and a returning Dave Hogg on drums. This configuration recorded the group's second , Screamin' n' Bleedin', which was released in September 1985 on the independent Killerwatt Records label. The album marked a shift toward a more straightforward heavy metal sound amid the band's efforts to rebuild momentum in a changing musical landscape. Angel Witch maintained the core of this lineup for their third studio release, , issued in April on Killerwatt Records. The record featured Kevin Heybourne on guitar and vocals, Dave Tattum on lead vocals, Pete Gordelier on bass, and Dave Hogg on drums and percussion. Further personnel adjustments occurred during this period, reflecting ongoing instability as the band navigated recording and touring commitments. Despite these efforts, persistent challenges, including label constraints and the waning popularity of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement in the mid-1980s, eroded the band's viability. Angel Witch performed a series of final gigs before officially disbanding in 1987.

1990s reunions and American project

Following the band's dissolution in the late 1980s, Kevin Heybourne relocated to the in 1989, seeking new opportunities for Angel Witch amid a shifting music landscape. He assembled an American lineup featuring guitarist Doug Piercy, bassist Jon Torres, and drummer , marking the start of the group's intermittent activity. This configuration performed on the West Coast and recorded material that captured their evolving sound. In February 1990, released Angel Witch Live, a recording from a performance at The Troubadour with the new U.S. lineup. The album included staples like "Angel of Death" and "Sorceress," showcasing Heybourne's commitment to reviving the band's heavy metal roots despite lineup changes. However, complications arose during a planned U.S. tour later that year, leading to Heybourne's arrest and deportation in 1991, which derailed the project. The U.S. endeavor formally collapsed by 1993, as ongoing legal hurdles and logistical challenges prevented sustained operations. Heybourne returned to , where the band maintained a low profile through the grunge-dominated mid-1990s, with only sporadic gigs across the continent to small audiences. During this hiatus, Heybourne focused on personal endeavors rather than formal side projects, contributing to the group's diminished visibility as overshadowed traditional heavy metal. By 1998, Angel Witch issued the self-released compilation , compiling demos from 1987, 1990, and that year, including tracks like "Psychopathic" and "Time to Die." This release served as a bridge during the dormancy, hinting at potential future activity without a full reunion.

2000s revival and live releases

Following a period of inactivity in the late 1990s, Angel Witch reunited in 2000 under the leadership of founder Kevin Heybourne for a performance at London's LA2 venue on November 25, which was recorded and released as the live album 2000: Live at the LA2 by Zoom Club Records. The setlist focused primarily on material from the band's 1980 self-titled debut album, including tracks like "," "Confused," and "," capturing the group's raw energy and Heybourne's signature guitar work. This lineup featured Heybourne on guitar and vocals, Keith Herzberg on , Richie Wicks on bass, and Scott Higham on drums, marking a temporary stabilization after years of flux. The revival gained further momentum through additional live releases that documented both contemporary and archival performances. In 2006, Mausoleum Records issued Angel of Death: Live at East Anglia Rock Festival, a collection of recordings from the band's mid-1980s shows at the , emphasizing high-octane renditions of classics such as the title track and "Extermination Day." This was followed in 2009 by Burn the White Witch - Live in London on Rubicon Music, drawn from a performance that year and highlighting the band's enduring appeal with songs like "Sorceress" and "Gorgon." These releases helped sustain interest among fans, often paired with reissues of earlier material that bolstered the band's cult status within the New Wave of British Heavy Metal scene. By the late 2000s, the lineup began to solidify with the addition of bassist in 2008, enabling more consistent European touring, including appearances at major festivals like in 2000 and Keep It True in 2005. Heybourne prioritized performing the classic repertoire from the band's formative years, which resonated with audiences and contributed to a growing following amid ongoing challenges with member availability and reliability that had plagued the group throughout the decade. This live-centric approach kept Angel Witch active without new studio output, laying the groundwork for future stability.

2010s albums and recent developments

In the early , Angel Witch released their fourth studio album, As Above, So Below, on March 12, 2012, through , marking their first full-length recording in 26 years. In 2010, guitarist joined the band, contributing to the album before departing in 2013. The album, produced by Jaime Gomez Arellano, featured eight original tracks written by frontman Kevin Heybourne, including "Dead Sea Scrolls" and "Witching Hour," blending the band's signature New Wave of British Heavy Metal sound with occult-inspired lyrics and extended compositions up to seven minutes in length. Building on the momentum from their 2000s revival, the band undertook several tours and festival appearances across Europe during the decade, including performances at Bloodstock Open Air in 2011, Hellfest in France, and Graspop Metal Meeting in Belgium, where they showcased material from their catalog alongside the new album. These shows helped solidify their enduring appeal within the heavy metal community, drawing crowds with high-energy sets emphasizing Heybourne's dual role on vocals and lead guitar. Angel Witch returned with their fifth studio album, Angel of Light, on November 1, 2019, via Metal Blade Records, their first release on the label and second since reuniting in the 2000s. The record explored darker, doom-influenced territories while retaining NWOBHM roots, with themes reflecting personal adversity and existential dread, as articulated by Heybourne in promotional interviews. Tracks like "Don't Turn Your Back" and "Death from Andromeda" highlighted the band's evolution, supported by a stable lineup at the time. As of 2025, Angel Witch's lineup consists of Kevin Heybourne on vocals and , Jimmy on , Will on bass, and Fredrik Jansson on drums, with no new studio albums announced since Angel of Light. The band faced a profound loss on July 4, 2025, when original bassist Kevin Riddles passed away at age 68 after battling cancer, as confirmed by the band's official statement and multiple reports. Riddles, a founding member, had occasionally guested with the band in later years, and his death prompted tributes from the heavy metal scene, underscoring his foundational role in the group's early sound.

Musical style and influences

Genre characteristics

Angel Witch's music exemplifies the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), characterized by fast-paced, riff-driven songs, intricate dual guitar harmonies, and the piercing, high-pitched vocals of frontman Kevin Heybourne. The band's sound emphasizes aggressive energy with melodic undertones, often featuring layered guitar work that creates a brooding, atmospheric intensity. Their self-titled debut album from 1980 showcases a raw, unpolished production that amplifies the band's fierce and chaotic guitar assault, capturing the visceral excitement of early NWOBHM while incorporating doomy, heavier tones. In contrast, 1980s releases like Frontal Assault (1986) retain this raw edge with grimy mixing but introduce more melodic structures and dynamic shifts, expanding on the debut's aggression without fully refining the sound. By the 2010s, albums such as As Above, So Below (2012) incorporate progressive elements, including extended guitar solos and complex compositions that blend the band's classic heaviness with mature songwriting and cleaner production. These works feature atmospheric builds and instrumental breaks with dual harmonies, evolving the NWOBHM foundation into a more restrained yet potent form. While sharing technical similarities with contemporaries like Iron Maiden—such as galloping rhythms and harmonic guitar lines—Angel Witch distinguishes itself through darker, doom-influenced tones that lend a spooky, occult-infused heaviness to their otherwise speedy metal framework. This evolution from the 1980s' youthful intensity to the 2010s' sophisticated maturity preserves the band's core heaviness, adapting NWOBHM tropes to contemporary sensibilities without dilution.

Lyrical themes and occult imagery

Angel Witch's lyrics have long been characterized by occult themes, drawing heavily from witchcraft lore and supernatural motifs. Founding member Kevin Heybourne drew inspiration for many early songs from books on witchcraft and magic, resulting in tracks that evoke demonic summons and mystical forces. For instance, the song "Sorceress" from the 1980 debut album portrays a enigmatic female figure with long black hair who lures the narrator to her castle, embodying archetypal witchcraft imagery of enchantment and peril. Similarly, the early song "Baphomet," featured on the 1980 Metal for Muthas compilation, references the infamous deity, a hermaphroditic figure symbolizing duality and , with lyrics urging submission to its devilish leadership as the "chosen one." These themes align with broader esoteric traditions, including hermetic philosophy, though the band avoids explicit endorsements of any single ideology. The band's visual aesthetic reinforces these lyrical obsessions through demonic and fantastical artwork. The cover of their self-titled 1980 debut features John Martin's 19th-century painting The Fallen Angels Entering Pandemonium, depicting a horde of horned, winged demons descending into hellish chaos, which amplifies the album's atmosphere of biblical downfall and supernatural dread. The band's emblematic logo reflects their occult imagery, creating a cohesive identity that permeates their early promotional materials. Tracks like "" evoke a female entity amid themes of seduction and damnation. This influence extended to later works, such as "Don’t Turn Your Back" on the 2019 album Angel of Light, whose lyrics were inspired by the 2016 film , blending retro horror aesthetics with warnings against succumbing to illusory temptations. In the , Angel Witch's lyrics evolved toward more personal and existential explorations while retaining undertones, reflecting Heybourne's maturation and band experiences. Songs like "The Night Is Calling" from Angel of Light address wandering spirits and lost souls crying into the void, symbolizing inner turmoil and the confrontation of personal demons rather than purely external rituals. This shift maintains the band's commitment to fantasy and , deliberately steering clear of political commentary in favor of introspective narratives that provide cathartic release from real-world concerns. The band's sound draws primary influences from , Led Zeppelin, and , contributing to their darker and more intense heavy metal style.

Legacy and impact

Influence on heavy metal

Angel Witch played a pivotal role in pioneering the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement during the late 1970s in , emerging alongside bands like Saxon to define the genre's energetic, guitar-driven sound through early performances at landmark events such as the 1979 Heavy Metal Crusade gig, where the term NWOBHM was first coined. Their self-titled debut album has earned recognition as an underrated classic of the NWOBHM era, frequently appearing in top rankings of the movement's essential records for its blend of melody and aggression. As part of NWOBHM's broader legacy, Angel Witch influenced the rise of thrash metal by inspiring bands like Metallica, part of the NWOBHM scene that influenced drummer Lars Ulrich in his early musical development, and the incorporation of speed and intensity into thrash. Similarly, Slayer has acknowledged Angel Witch among their influences, contributing to the genre's shift toward faster, more extreme expressions. In the 2000s, Angel Witch supported the revival of occult-themed heavy metal through key reissues like the 2000 Resurrection compilation and live recordings, alongside festival appearances such as at in 2000, which renewed interest in their mystical imagery and dark tonality. Historical accounts of heavy metal position Angel Witch as a bridge between hard rock's foundational elements and the extremism of subsequent subgenres like thrash and .

Covers and tributes

Angel Witch's songs have been covered by a diverse array of metal bands, reflecting the band's enduring influence within the genre. One of the earliest notable covers came from British thrash metal pioneers Onslaught, who included a rendition of "Confused" on their 1984 EP Shellshock. This high-octane version adapted the original's NWOBHM drive to Onslaught's aggressive style, showcasing the track's versatility for faster-paced interpretations. American doom metal outfit Trouble also paid homage to Angel Witch with a live performance of "Confused" captured on tape in 1983, during their early club shows in Chicago. The cover highlighted Trouble's affinity for the occult-tinged heavy metal of the NWOBHM era, aligning it with their own shadowy lyrical themes. Later, death metal veterans Six Feet Under recorded a brutalized take on "Confused" for their 2000 covers album Graveyard Classics, transforming the song's mid-tempo riffing into a grinding, low-end assault typical of their sound. In 2014, Danish heavy metal band Witch Cross contributed a faithful yet energetic cover of the title track "Angel Witch" to the official tribute album Harder Than Steel: The Official Keep It True Festival Tribute Album, a compilation celebrating classic heavy metal acts. This release, tied to the renowned Keep It True festival in Germany—a key event for NWOBHM and traditional metal enthusiasts—featured multiple bands honoring pioneers like Angel Witch, underscoring the festival's role in preserving and revitalizing the genre's roots. Similarly, German occult rock band Lucifer included a bonus track cover of "Loser" on the Japanese edition of their 2015 debut album Lucifer I, infusing the song with psychedelic doom elements. Modern bands continue to perform Angel Witch material live, demonstrating the songs' lasting appeal among newer heavy metal acts. For instance, California-based Night Demon has incorporated "White Witch" into their setlists during tours, blending it seamlessly with their retro heavy metal aesthetic. These performances and recordings by bands spanning thrash, , and traditional metal illustrate how Angel Witch's riff-heavy compositions and mystical themes resonate across subgenres, inspiring tributes that keep their music alive in contemporary scenes.

Band members

Current members

The current lineup of Angel Witch, as of 2025, consists of founder Kevin Heybourne on lead guitar and vocals, a role he has held continuously since forming the band in 1976. Jimmy Martin joined as rhythm guitarist in 2015, bringing experience from the NWOBHM band Treason. Will Palmer has been the bassist since 2008, serving as a long-term collaborator in various lineups. Fredrik Jansson took over on drums in 2018, hailing from the Swedish metal scene. This quartet contributed to the band's 2019 album Angel of Light, marking a stable period of recording and performance. They have continued to handle recent live shows, including their appearance at Wacken Open Air on August 1, 2025.

Former members

Angel Witch has seen numerous lineup changes since its formation, with several former members contributing to key recordings and tours during the band's early NWOBHM era and subsequent revivals. These individuals played pivotal roles in shaping the band's sound before departing for various reasons, including creative differences and personal pursuits. Notable departures include the original rhythm section after the debut album and transient players during the 1980s and 1990s lineups.
  • Kevin Riddles (bass, 1978–1981): As a founding member, Riddles provided the driving bass lines for the band's seminal self-titled debut album in 1980, contributing to tracks like "" and "Angel Witch." He later formed Tytan with drummer Dave Hogg. Riddles passed away on July 4, 2025, at age 68 following a battle with cancer.
  • Dave Hogg (drums, 1978–1980, 1984–1985): Hogg was the original drummer, performing on the 1980 debut album and delivering the aggressive percussion that defined Angel Witch's raw energy. He rejoined for the 1985 album Screamin' n' Bleedin', adding backing vocals as well. Hogg left after the mid-1980s releases to pursue other projects.
  • Keith Herzberg (guitar, 2000–2002): The German guitarist joined for live performances in the early 2000s, co-writing material and expanding the band's dual-guitar attack during a turbulent period. He briefly returned in the early 2000s for live performances before exiting again.
  • Jon Torres (bass, guitars, 1990–1998, 2000, 2002–2003): The U.S. handled bass duties during the band's 1990s activity, including demos like Twist of the Knife (1990) and Resurrection (1998), and also contributed guitar parts. Torres, known for his work with Heathen and Laaz Rockit, died on September 3, 2013, from heart failure at age 51.
  • Bill Steer (guitar, 2011–2015): Known for Carcass, Steer joined as live second guitarist during the band's 2010s revival, contributing to tours including Bloodstock 2011.
Other transient members from the 1980s included early guitarist Rob Downing (1978–1979), who was part of the pre-debut Lucifer incarnation before the band's name change, and drummers like Dave Dufort (1980–1981) and Andy Prestidge (1982–1983), who supported short-lived reformations post-debut. These players helped bridge gaps during periods of instability but did not appear on major studio releases.

Discography

Studio albums

Angel Witch's debut studio album, Angel Witch, was released on November 17, 1980, by and features eight tracks, including the title track and "Atlantis," showcasing the band's raw energy and neo-classical riffing that helped define the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) sound. Critics have praised its furious riffs, driving bass lines, and haunting imagery, hailing it as a cornerstone of the genre with timeless appeal. The band's second album, Screamin' n' Bleedin', arrived on September 28, 1985, via Killerwatt Records, comprising eight tracks such as "Gonna Raise Hell" and "Waltz the Night," noted for its aggressive tone amid lineup changes including new vocalist Dave Tattum. While it maintains the heavy metal intensity of the debut, reception has been mixed, often viewed as a step back due to production issues and less memorable songwriting compared to earlier work. Frontal Assault, released on April 9, 1986, on Killerwatt Records, contains eight tracks like "She Don't Lie" and "," marking the band's final studio effort with a more melodic and straightforward heavy metal approach. Reviews appreciate its energetic riffs and accessibility, though it is generally seen as solid rather than groundbreaking, reflecting the band's evolution during a turbulent period. After a long hiatus, Angel Witch returned with As Above, So Below on March 12, 2012, through Rise Above Records, featuring nine tracks including "As Above, So Below" and "Brainwashed," benefiting from modern production while echoing the debut's progressive and doomy elements. The album received strong acclaim for its fresh yet nostalgic NWOBHM revival, with critics highlighting its catchy riffs and Heybourne's improved vocals. The fifth studio album, Angel of Light, was issued on November 1, 2019, by and includes eight tracks such as the title song and "The Witch," exploring themes of resilience and occultism with a blend of classic galloping rhythms and technical guitar work. It garnered positive reception for recapturing the band's authentic heavy metal essence while sounding vital and undiluted, often compared favorably to their seminal debut. A sixth studio album is scheduled for release in winter 2025 via (announced 2025; title and details pending).

Live albums

Angel Witch's live albums document the band's energetic performances across decades, capturing their raw heavy metal sound and enduring appeal during periods of reunion and revival. These releases highlight the group's ability to deliver their occult-themed classics to enthusiastic audiences, often featuring extended sets drawn from their seminal debut and subsequent works. The band's first official live album, Angel Witch Live, was recorded on February 7, 1990, at The Troubadour in Los Angeles, California, during a reunion phase after a hiatus in the mid-1980s. Featuring Kevin Heybourne on vocals and guitar alongside Grant Dennison on guitar, Peter Gordelier on bass, and Spencer Holman on drums, the album includes 11 tracks primarily from their 1980 self-titled debut, such as "Angel of Death" and "Sorceress," emphasizing the original lineup's chemistry and the band's resurgence in the American market through Metal Blade Records. Its straightforward production preserves the venue's intimate atmosphere, showcasing Heybourne's distinctive dual role and the trio's tight instrumentation. In 2000, 2000: Live at the LA2 captured a high-energy performance at the LA2 venue in London, reflecting the band's revitalized presence in the late 1990s amid the NWOBHM revival. Released as a two-disc set on Zoom Club Records, the audio disc features a complete setlist of over an hour, including staples like "Atlantis" and "Gorgon," while the accompanying Video CD provides visual footage for fans to experience the crowd's enthusiasm and the band's dynamic stage presence. This release stands out for its multimedia format, blending audio fidelity with video to convey the 1990s touring vigor. Angel of Death: Live at East Anglia Rock Festival, issued in 2006 by Mausoleum Records, compiles live recordings from the band's appearance at the East Anglia Rock Festival in Mildenhall, Suffolk, on July 24, 1982. The eight-track album revives early 1980s footage, featuring songs like "Gorgon," "Nowhere to Run," and "The Sorceress" performed by the then-current lineup, offering a raw glimpse into Angel Witch's formative festival era and their raw, unpolished heavy metal delivery. Augmented with three bonus studio tracks, it serves as an archival document of the band's NWOBHM roots. The 2009 release Burn the White Witch: Live in London, recorded at The Underworld in Camden, London, on April 30, exemplifies the band's interactive rapport with fans during their 2000s resurgence. With a 10-song set drawing heavily from their debut—including "Sweet Danger," "Confused," and the title track "White Witch"—the album highlights Heybourne's commanding vocals and the audience's responsive energy, creating an immersive live experience noted for its atmospheric and celebratory vibe. Released initially in via Rubicon Music, it underscores Angel Witch's continued through vivid crowd engagement.

Compilations and EPs

Angel Witch's early exposure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene came through their contribution of the track "Baphomet" to the 1980 compilation Metal for Muthas, released by EMI Records, which featured emerging British metal acts and helped establish the band's reputation for raw, aggressive sound ahead of their debut album. The track's inclusion provided a crucial breakthrough, showcasing guitarist Kevin Heybourne's occult-themed songwriting and the band's Sabbath-influenced heaviness to a wider audience. The band's debut single, "Sweet Danger," was released in May 1980 via EMI, with the A-side delivering a melodic yet heavy NWOBHM rocker and the B-side "Flight 19" offering a longer, more atmospheric piece that highlighted their evolving style. This 7-inch release served as an initial showcase for their material before the full-length album, emphasizing themes of danger and escapism central to their early output. In 1998, Angel Witch issued Resurrection through their own Angel Witch Productions label, a compilation collecting rarities and demo recordings spanning the late 1980s to the late 1990s, including tracks from 1987, 1990, and 1998 sessions that captured the band's intermittent activity during lineup changes and hiatuses. These demos, such as "Psychopathic" and "Time to Die," preserved unreleased material from their formative and reformation periods, providing fans with insight into their songwriting evolution beyond the 1970s and early era. The 2019 single "Don't Turn Your Back," released by as a limited-edition promo ahead of the album Angel of Light, featured the title track as a standalone 7-inch or digital single, tying into the band's renewed activity and maintaining their signature riff-driven intensity. This release underscored Angel Witch's ongoing relevance in heavy metal, bridging their classic sound with contemporary production. Additional releases in the include the single Doctor Phibes (1986, Records).

References

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