Witchfynde

Witchfynde is a British heavy metal group associated with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. The band originates from Chesterfield, United Kingdom, and is active from 1974 to 1984. Its line-up includes Richard Blower, Neil Harvey, Andro Coulton, Gra Scoresby, Trevor Taylor, Steve Bridges and Pete Surgey.

Formation and early releases

The group forms in Nottinghamshire, England in late 1979 with vocalist Steve Bridges, lead guitarist Montalo, bassist Andro Coulton and drummer Gra Scoresby. It releases its first single, Give 'Em Hell, in 1979, followed by its debut album of the same name on Rondolet Records in 1980. Its early profile grows through frequent airplay on BBC Radio 1’s Friday Night Rock Show with Tommy Vance.

Style and live work

Witchfynde’s music combines heavy metal with progressive and hard rock influences, alongside prominent satanic imagery. The band also gains exposure by touring the United Kingdom with Def Leppard in summer 1980.

Later years and releases

After line-up changes, Witchfynde releases albums in 1980, 1983 and 1984 before fading away because of a lack of interest. Former members reunite in 2001, after which the group performs at events and festivals across the UK, Europe and America. Its back catalogue is later reissued on CD.

Discography

The band’s releases include Give 'Em Hell (1979), Stagefright (1980), Cloak and Dagger (1983), Lords Of Sin (1984), The Best Of Witchfynde (1996), Cloak and Dagger (reissue, 2000), The Witching Hour (2004), Give 'Em Hell (reissue, 2004), Stagefright (reissue, 2005), Play It to Death (2008) and Royal William Live Sacrifice (live album, 2011).