Emanating the Irish coastline of Islandmagee Co.Antrim, Electronic Celtic outfit VOKXEN have released their new single ‘Sanctuary (The Witches Stone)’. Describing their new song as “a breath of fresh Eire”, ‘Sanctuary (The Witches Stone)’ commemorates the Islandmagee Witch Trials some 300_ years on. VOKXEN began researching the stories from their own island, uncovering intriguing tales of Irish folklore. The duo have been featured on BBC Two Northern Ireland, and the band’s bassist was featured as Aisling in Channel 4’s Derry Girls.  This enigmatic duo is formed by Claire McCartney (Lead Vocals / Harp / Keys) and Beccy Henderson (Backing Vocals / Bass / Synth) and are joined by David McLaughlin (Percussion / Drums) for ‘Sanctuary (The Witches Stone)’.

VOKXEN use their eloquent storytelling and fine musicianship to create a thrilling and wholly consuming tune with ‘Sanctuary (The Witches Stone)’.Blending folk-esque harp with brooding atmospherics and driving percussion, the track exudes suspense and shadowy tones. The rumbling beats ferment and bubble through wispy soundscapes to create an asphyxiating dark undertone, while the haunting harmonies provide an eerie and bewitching quality. Gripping and well-phrased lyrics ooze tension throughout enhanced by the tracks intense soundscapes “With haste, I tremble, winds that scrape, The taste of racing to escape, Body be with me, breath and beat, Steal away, flee and seek”. VOKXEN are proficient storytellers, and their ability to create hair-raising immersive music is quite impressive. 

‘Sanctuary (The Witches Stone)’ tells the story of a woman condemned as a Witch. She is caught as she reaches the sanctuary of The Witches Stone, which she clings to tightly as she is grabbed and taken away. Such is her desperation, the marks from her fingers gripping the stone remain present to this day. 

Stream ‘Sanctuary (The Witches Stone)’ below 

Author: Danu