Radiohead's song "Singe the Witch" serves as a haunting and politically charged critique of fear-mongering and the manipulation of public opinion. **Through its compelling lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation, the song conveys the message that societies often succumb to irrationality and allow their leaders to stoke their fears for their own benefit.** The title itself, "Singe the Witch," is a play on words that alludes to the witch trials of the past and the burning of women at the stake, a metaphor for the scapegoating and persecution of marginalized groups in modern society. By evoking this dark history, Radiohead draws attention to the dangers of collective hysteria and the alarming power that fear can hold over a society. The song's lyrics further explore this theme, presenting a narrative that unfolds like a cautionary tale. The opening lines, "This is a low-flying panic attack / Sing the song of sixpence that goes / Burn the witch," immediately set a somber tone while also hinting at the absurdity and irrationality that can accompany fear.
The opinions expressed in this article about “Burn the Witch” do not necessarily reflect those of the band, the video’s director or any of the band’s representatives.
Lead animator Virpi Kettu said Radiohead s stop-motion animation video, inspired by a beloved British children s program and a cult movie, was filmed in a remarkable two weeks. Dropping into the middle of a spring afternoon like black clouds scattering the birds from the trees, Radiohead s new song Burn The Witch lands with a dark, slinky, ominous immediacy.
The opening lines, "This is a low-flying panic attack / Sing the song of sixpence that goes / Burn the witch," immediately set a somber tone while also hinting at the absurdity and irrationality that can accompany fear. Throughout the song, Radiohead paints a vivid picture of a society consumed by paranoia and willing to sacrifice basic human rights in the name of security. In one verse, they sing, "We know where you live," ominously highlighting the surveillance state that can arise under such circumstances.
Radiohead Drops New Single & Wicker Man-Inspired Music Video for “Burn the Witch”
Radiohead releases the first single and music video from their upcoming ninth studio album.
May 3, 2016After a series of Instagram teasers and mysterious leaflets sent to fans that made mention of the song’s title, Radiohead has released “Burn the Witch,” the first single from their ninth studio album. Rumored to be called Dawn Chorus, the upcoming album will be the band’s first in over five years, following 2011’s The King of Limbs. “Burn the Witch,” which goes on sale at midnight, has reportedly been in the works for at least 15 years, as far back as 2001’s Kid A. True to the band’s long-established brand, the track melds digital and analog, with staccato guitar stabs, lush orchestral swells, and of course, frontman Thom Yorke’s sonorous wails undergirded by buzzing electronic sounds and Colin Greenwood’s distinctive bass. “Stand in the shadows/To the gallows/This is a round-up,” Yorke cautions at the song’s start, with all the paranoia and politically shaded intrigue we’ve come to expect.
The music video, also released today, features stop-motion animation in the style of the 1960s-era U.K. children’s show Trumpton. Directed by Chris Hopewell, the video depicts a government official sent to inspect the strange goings-on in a small village, where he’s burned alive in a giant wooden statue in a scene reminiscent of the 1973 cult classic The Wicker Man.
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In addition to its stirring lyrics, the song's instrumentation and arrangement contribute to its unsettling atmosphere. The blend of strings, pounding drums, and Thom Yorke's haunting vocals creates a sense of tension and unease. The use of dissonant chords and abrupt shifts in dynamics heightens the song's sense of urgency, mirroring the erratic and unpredictable nature of fear-driven societies. "Singe the Witch" is a powerful and thought-provoking song that reminds us of the dangers of fear and how easily societies can be swayed by manipulation. **Through its lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation, Radiohead encourages listeners to question authority, challenge irrationality, and strive for a society that values reason, empathy, and justice.**.
Reviews for "Why 'Singe the Witch' is a standout track on Radiohead's album"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I have been a long-time fan of Radiohead, but "Singe the Witch" just didn't do it for me. The song felt disjointed and lacked the immersive and experimental sound that I love from the band. The abrupt changes in tempo and style made it difficult to connect with the track, and the lyrics felt shallow and repetitive. Overall, it was a disappointing release from a band that I hold in high regard.
2. Michael - 1 star - I found "Singe the Witch" to be a complete mess. The instrumentation was all over the place, with no clear direction or flow. Thom Yorke's vocals were drowned out by the chaotic and excessive use of strings, making it difficult to understand the lyrics. The song lacked any memorable hooks or captivating melodies, leaving me uninterested and disengaged. It feels like Radiohead was trying too hard to be avant-garde and experimental, resulting in a track that is more frustrating than enjoyable.
3. Emily - 2 stars - Even as a fan of Radiohead's experimental side, "Singe the Witch" fell flat for me. The track lacked the cohesive structure that Radiohead is known for, and the vocal performance felt uninspired and monotonous. The repetitive nature of the song's lyrics became grating after repeated listens, and the abrupt ending left me feeling unsatisfied and perplexed. Overall, it was a forgettable addition to their discography, and I hope they return to their more engaging and innovative style in future releases.
4. David - 1.5 stars - "Singe the Witch" is a prime example of Radiohead's tendency to veer into pretentiousness. The track felt overly complex and convoluted, with no clear direction or purpose. The excessive use of orchestral elements overshadowed the band's unique sound, making it difficult to connect with the music. The song lacked any memorable hooks or captivating moments, leaving me bored and disinterested. It's disappointing to see a band with such potential release a song that feels more like an ego trip than a genuine artistic endeavor.