Esben and The Witch – “Violet Cries” – [Matador Records]

This trio, from Brighton, United Kingdom, takes its name from a grim Danish fairy tale. Although the tale ends well, there???s plenty of angst to sludge through, and the songs on this debut CD mirror this struggle. Rachel Davies??? voice is a highlight throughout, whether she is emitting those ???violet cries??? or something more gentle. Fans of dark, haunting music will find something here to tickle their fancy.