Farmer’s Wife Unleash Haunting Cover of “Season of the Witch” in Time for Spooky Season
Austin rock band Farmer’s Wife have unveiled their haunting cover of Donovan's classic “Season of the Witch,” just in time for Halloween and their U.S. tour supporting Cloud Nothings. The band dives into the eerie side of their artistry with this reimagined track, showcasing their growth since their debut EP, There’s A Monster.
NEW RELEASESROCK
10/1/20242 min read
Austin rockers Farmer’s Wife are back with a chilling twist on the classic Donovan song “Season of the Witch,” set to electrify listeners as the Halloween season approaches. This fresh take drops on the eve of their extensive U.S. tour supporting Cloud Nothings, marking an exciting moment for the band as they continue to carve their niche in the rock scene. With this cover, they delve into the heart of experimental sound, delivering a version that captures the essence of the original while infusing it with their unique energy.
Lead vocalist Molly Masson reflects on the creation of the cover, revealing, “Our version of ‘Season of the Witch’ started with a drum beat and pedal feedback two Halloweens ago. This creepy classic opened us to more experimentation and allowed us to dive into an eerier side of our sound.” It’s evident that Farmer’s Wife has harnessed the haunting spirit of the song, wringing out every tangled note to create a compelling auditory experience that spirals into chaos.
Since their formation in 2021, Farmer’s Wife has become a staple in Austin’s DIY scene, captivating audiences with incendiary performances and swirling guitar riffs. Their debut EP, There’s A Monster, released last fall, established their reputation for crafting atmospheric tracks that transport listeners into their dark, fairy tale universe. Earlier this year, they teased a shift in sound with the single “Boheme”, leading up to their anticipated fall tour.
After a busy summer hitting stages across the country, Farmer’s Wife is gearing up for another tour, this time with Cloud Nothings and supporting acts Equipment and Armlock. Following the initial leg of their tour, they’ll return to Austin to perform at the Levitation Festival alongside Illuminati Hotties and Hello Mary. The full list of tour dates includes stops in cities like Louisville, Nashville, and Brooklyn, promising fans an unforgettable live experience.
Farmer’s Wife encapsulates a blend of dark fairy tales and haunting melodies, drawing inspiration from the grunge textures of the '90s and the psychedelic sounds of the '60s. Their music resonates with echoes of The Smashing Pumpkins, Slowdive, and Hole, all while weaving in the raw emotions reminiscent of early 2000s emo.
Molly Masson’s captivating onstage presence cleverly distracts from the despair and confusion that lingers in her lyrics, creating a compelling contrast that leaves audiences entranced. Each listen reveals the intricate details of their sound—a hypnotic blend of guitar lines, haunting vocals, and powerful rhythms that draw you into their emotional landscape.
The band’s songwriting showcases a masterful ability to navigate complex themes, often oscillating between sweet vulnerability and dark imagery. Lyrical lines such as “I miss having her hand here in mine” juxtaposed with the chilling “I chop you up in little pieces, let you grow a little mold” illustrate their capacity for storytelling that is both personal and voyeuristic.
As Halloween approaches and the leaves begin to fall, Farmer’s Wife’s haunting rendition of “Season of the Witch” serves as a perfect soundtrack for those looking to embrace the darker side of the season.
Photo credit: Kylie Bly
Listen below:
