The lyrics see a crowd form together where they have been “told a version of a story that wasn’t true”; which reflects witch trials, a prevalent event in finding a scapegoat to blame. The fact that the narrative is told from the perspective of a rabbit who is a witness to this situation is an interesting concept; it helps to build upon the folklore or even fairytale-esque feel of this lyricism with the unbiased narrator.
The tone of the musicality itself adds to the narrative: the keyboard backing gradually increases in intensity, beginning with a simple chord progression which furthers into a layered composition. The electronic sound of this single juxtaposes with the traditional storytelling technique used; it could be inferred that this is purposeful - demonstrating how witch hunts are still a concept in today’s society. The thematic element of the witch is demonstrated once again in the cover art, which features Lady Lilith (painted by Dante Gabriel Rossetti), who is said to be the first witch.
The guitar solo, which overlays the already built-up track, feels as though it is trying to convey an angrier message. Pairing it with how the narrative progresses into chaos through listening to the ways a witch could be killed, “you’ve got to throw them to the bottom of the lake”, adds to the intensity of the song by its final minute. There’s a fullness in how the production comes together by the closing moments. Producer Jordan Lawlor has masterfully explored the unsettling atmosphere that adds to the song. This is furthered by the vocals, which subtly sing harmonies in the background.
Marsh’s new solo project seeks to delve into themes of dissociation, vigilance, and a skewed sense of accusation. The line “are you to blame for not having a clue?” draws on this wider theme of condemnation. The use of this character study in explaining his own lived experiences with neurodiversity feels authentic: Marsh’s lyricism may pull from fictional stories, but the underlying feelings are raw and true.
The combination of electronic, alternative, and pop influences in this song gives it an almost nostalgic Imagine Dragons-feel. Bringing the concept of folklore into the modern music sphere has paid off for herbie the rabbit on ‘Burn The Witch’.
Emily Teague
Image: ‘Burn The Witch’ Official Single Cover
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