Gastronomic Witch Monmouth Beach NJ is a unique and exciting culinary experience located in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey. This charming eatery combines the traditional art of cooking with a touch of magic and witchcraft, resulting in a truly memorable dining experience. Upon entering Gastronomic Witch, guests are greeted by a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere. The restaurant's interior is decorated with spellbooks, cauldrons, and other mystical decor, transporting diners to a world of magic and wonder. The ambiance is further enhanced by soft lighting and soothing background music, creating a cozy and intimate setting. The menu at Gastronomic Witch is a fusion of classic and modern cuisines, with an emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

WITCH, “Zango”

The Zamrock trailblazers’ first album in 39 years is impressively coherent, far-reaching, and composed in terms of songwriting and the musicians’ relaxed delivery throughout.

WITCH, Zango

The Zamrock trailblazers’ first album in 39 years is impressively coherent, far-reaching, and composed in terms of songwriting and the musicians’ relaxed delivery throughout.

Photo by Michael Muller. Image design by Gene Bresler at Catch Light Digital. Cobver design by Jerome Curchod.
Phoebe Bridgers makeup: Jenna Nelson (using Smashbox Cosmetics)
Phoebe Bridgers hair: Lauren Palmer-Smith
MUNA hair/makeup: Caitlin Wronski

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Lou Reed, Hudson River Wind Meditations [Reissue]

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Pile, Hot Air Balloon

The five songs on Rick Maguire and his band’s soft follow-up to last year’s All Fiction exude a cozy feel that favors a comfortable, even homespun-sounding, experience.

WITCH
Zango
DESERT DAZE SOUND

Chances are you’ve heard the term “Jamrock,” thanks to Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s GRAMMY-winning song (and album) Welcome to Jamrock, released nearly two decades ago. But you probably haven’t heard of “Zamrock,” the strain of psych-rock that hails not from Jamaica but Zambia.

WITCH were—and are—indefatigably trying to bring broader appeal to the loosely defined Zambian genre, which also incorporates elements of blues and funk. The group formed in 1972, quickly becoming the country’s biggest band, working in musical styles ranging from soul to disco to kalindula (a bass-centric sound popular in southern-central Africa). WITCH dissolved the following decade due to the country’s political and economic turmoil. Then they re-formed in 2012 thanks to reissues of their albums sparking a new wave of popularity. And, by recruiting musicians from various European countries, WITCH effectively reconfigured themselves into a broader acid-funk ensemble.

After noticing the success of their reissues, WITCH finally created Zango, their first collection of new material in 39 years (take that, ABBA, Parliament, and William Shatner). Despite all the lineup changes over the years—not to mention technological advancements—WITCH set forth on a record that’s coherent, far-reaching, and composed—not just in terms of songwriting, but in the musicians’ relaxed delivery throughout the listen. Giving the band its gold star, Zango also showcases the fluidity with which they segue from genre to genre, often on the same song. “Avalanche of Love” includes a passage that calls Black Sabbath’s rhythm section to mind. “These Eyes of Mine” is, simply put, a really fun tropicália tune.

The album closes with “Message from W.I.T.C.H.,” which acts as a cheat sheet of sorts for those who don’t get what Zango is all about: “Zamrock has resurrected from his decades-long slumber into new mixes,” lead vocalist Emanyeo “Jagari” Chanda says. “The message our music carries is sharper than the mightiest sword, hits deeper than any bullet can. It unites beliefs, conquers xenophobia, sexism, homophobia, anti-Semitism—embraces every race. It’s blind to color. It is sweeter than honey. The word, or message, is ‘love.’ Taste it.”

WITCH
Zango

A group’s history can be inhibiting to a review, dictating the direction of the writing without focusing on the music at hand. This is especially true when tackling music by artists rediscovered after years in the musical wilderness. Thankfully, Zambian icons WITCH make things incredibly easy. Zango , their first album in over 39 years, follows their 2019 comeback documentary WITCH: We Intend To Cause Havoc and sees the group enter their second act revitalised, completely free from the weight of their past.

You’d forgive the legendary Zamrock group for resting on their laurels, but Zango regularly treads new ground. The album is a far groovier monster than anything from their extensive back catalogue. ‘By The Time You Realize’ and ‘Avalanche of Love’ maintain their signature psych rock edge while keeping more than one eye on the dance floor, elevating the album above pure intrigue towards something that is genuinely exciting on its own merit.

The funk flows effortless throughout, resulting in an album tailor-made for late summer. The sunny day synths of ‘Malango’ scream September barbecue, while you can almost hear the ice lollies being cracked out underneath the William Onyeabor-tastic beats of ‘Streets of Lusaka’.

By keeping one eye on the future, WITCH have ensured they won’t be defined by their past. Don’t call it a comeback. Zango proves there’s a new chapter ready to be written by this lot.

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Originally published in Issue 159

WITCH

WITCH was the first band in Zambia to release a commercial album — 1973’s Introduction. Blending the rock and roll sounds of The Rolling Stones together with more traditional, African rhythms, WITCH pioneered a new genre dubbed Zamrock, and during their brief, yet prolific existence, WITCH (an acronym for We Intend To Cause Havoc) released 7 albums and were the most revered band in the country.

In 2023, WITCH will release their 8th studio album, Zango, via Desert Daze Sound — a new Partisan imprint A&Red by the founder of the Desert Daze festival, Phil Pirrone. On Zango, bandleader Emmanuel “Jagari” Chanda is joined by Patrick Mwondela on keys, Nico Mauskoviç on drums and percussion, Stefan Lilov and JJ Whitefield on guitars, and Jacco Gardner on bass, who is also credited with producing the album alongside WITCH. The album features collaborations with Keith Kabwe (Amanaz), Theresa Ng’ambi, Hanna Tembo, and Sampa The Great.

Recorded in the same studio in Zambia where the band’s sensational 1975 album Lazy Bones had been made some 46 years prior – DB Studios – Zango tells the story of the band’s phoenix-like rebirth into its current supergroup-like state. The album is full of international and inter-generational collaborations that chart musical histories from Zambia and beyond.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: A BRAND NEW album from Zambian psych-rock legends WITCH, their first in 39 years, sees the band forging a powerfully danceable groove from hefty overdriven guitars and snapping percussion, soaring melodies and syncopated rhythms. Unfalteringly brilliant, and WELL overdue.

TRACK LISTING

1. By The Time You Realize
2. Waile
3. Nshingilile
4. Streets Of Lusaka
5. Unimvwesha Shuga
6. Avalanche Of Love
7. Malango
8. Stop The Rot
9. These Eyes Of Mine
10. Message From W.I.T.C.H.

The menu at Gastronomic Witch is a fusion of classic and modern cuisines, with an emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is carefully prepared and presented with a creative flair that reflects the culinary expertise of the resident witch chef. One of the highlights of the menu is the Witch's Brew, a signature cocktail that changes with the seasons.

This concoction is a delightful blend of fruits, spirits, and secret ingredients, resulting in a magical and refreshing beverage. For appetizers, guests can choose from a variety of spellbinding dishes such as the Magic Mushroom Bruschetta or the Potion of Roasted Cauliflower Soup. These dishes are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that will enchant the taste buds. As for the main course, the Gastronomic Witch offers an array of mouthwatering options. From the Spiced Pumpkin Ravioli to the Potions of Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, each dish is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the chef's skill and creativity. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. To end the meal on a sweet note, the dessert menu at Gastronomic Witch is truly enchanting. From the Witch's Chocolate Molten Cake to the Crystal Sugar Cookie Tower, these indulgent treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Overall, Gastronomic Witch Monmouth Beach NJ is a dining experience like no other. It combines the thrill of witchcraft with the pleasure of fine dining to create a truly magical experience for guests. Whether you're looking for a unique date night spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion, this gastronomic gem is a must-visit. So, gather your friends and family and embark on a culinary adventure at Gastronomic Witch. Join the magic!.

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