Typically, we associate acoustic-led songs with a quiet intimacy or introspective storytelling, but with her recent single ‘Salem’, Elizabeth Winterbourne demonstrates how these organic elements can be as powerful as any digitally produced track. There’s certainly that down-to-earth feeling of folk, but she elevates her sound beyond expectations with a resounding pop defiance akin to songwriters like Stevie Nicks and Joni Mitchell. It’s an urgent, vibrant and powerful narrative steeped into women’s history.
Inspired by the symbol of witchcraft, both metaphorical and factual, ‘Salem’ is an empowering moment that reframes the women who were victimised by European and American witch trials as heroes of their own story. These figures stand for autonomy, creativity and refusal to conform, which are clearly traits shared by this singer-songwriter.
This sense of vulnerability and resistance is emphasised by the warm acoustic textures, bold percussion, stirring strings and winding melodies. Leading the way like candlelight in the dark forest is Winterbourne‘s formidable voice which carries the emotional weight of outsider women, both past and present. Her vocals are notably earnest and tender, yet you can’t escape the serrated edges which once again portray a hidden strength.
We really appreciate Winterbourne‘s intuitive use of analogue instrumentation in ‘Salem’ to highlight the thoroughly human experience of injustice, sisterhood and resilience. It makes for a truly refreshing and relatable listen.
You can also listen to ‘Salem’ in our Folk This Way playlist.
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