Witch Fever and Hallowe’en – terms that complement each other perfectly. The Manchester band delivers an intense sound, merging doom-punk, abrasive metal elements, and gothic nuances to evoke primordial imagery. Their new album ‘FEVEREATEN’ has been released, guiding the band into uncharted territories and spotlighting their potent creations in a new light.
Vocalist Amy Walpole meticulously analyzes each word in her lyric sheet, guaranteeing that their music conveys substantial literary depth. A passionate reader, she brings books along on the tour bus, letting those influences enrich her music.
CLASH chatted with Witch Fever's Amy Walpole for Their Library – exploring literary inspirations...
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What is your favorite book and why?
That's such a tough question. My favorites seem to change frequently, but a classic that introduced me to gothic and horror literature is The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. I hold a master’s degree in gothic English literature, and that book was significant for my dissertation research, which examined the connection between possessed women and haunted houses in 21st-century literature. It’s a beautifully crafted story—truly eerie, gut-wrenching, and powerful.
What other authors do you appreciate?
So many! Ottessa Moshfegh, Carmen Maria Machado, Helen Oyeyemi, Nour Abi-Nakhoul, Alison Rumfitt, Gerardo Sámano Córdova, Sunyi Dean, Nada Elia, Alex S. Vitale, Jeanette Winterson, Barbara Creed, and the list goes on…
What attracts you to specific books?
I’m generally drawn to two main types of books. In fiction, I usually seek out horror, gothic, or just something a bit unusual, particularly through a feminist perspective. For non-fiction, I gravitate toward a lot of intersectional feminist literature.
Do your literary influences have a tangible effect on your songwriting?
Absolutely. I invested a lot of time during my master’s studying horror and the gothic through a feminist lens, making it nearly impossible for me to write now without that context. My lyrics blend my personal experiences with religious and horror imagery. Additionally, the music created by the rest of the band heavily influences my writing style and subject matter.
What are you currently reading?
I just completed Innocent Subjects: Feminism and Whiteness by Terese Jonsson and Lapvona by Ottessa Moshfegh. Now, I'm reading His Black Tongue by Mitchell Lüthi.
What is the first book you recall reading as a child?
Peepo! by Janet and Allan Ahlberg.
Would you ever consider re-reading the same book?
Absolutely! But likely a few years after the first reading. I've definitely re-read some Stephen King, particularly IT.
Have you ever related to a character in a book? Which one and why?
For sure, Carrie by Stephen King! I connect with her struggle against her religious upbringing and her difficulties in school. However, I must note that my mother was nothing like Carrie’s outrageous mom—she was wonderful!
Is there an author or poet you wish to collaborate with?
Jehnny Beth, Genevieve Valentine, or my friend Jennifer Lane <3
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‘FEVEREATEN’ is now available.
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Their Library: Witch Illness