Reviewed by Philip Laing

Cross Rhythms readers will know that Heath is a multi-talented individual living in Georgia and after years of recording the occasional hip-hop album has in the last couple of years exploded creatively so that in addition to his impressive rapping there has also been a string of singer/songwriter releases. 'Salem Songs' is his second solo release of 2015 and, like much of his music, is a free download. This five-song EP is inspired by events of the notorious Salem Witch Trials of the 1690s. All of the songs are acoustic guitar-led and feature a lot of reverb on the lead vocals. The opening title track describes how the town has "bewitched" him while in "Rev Hooper (The Minister's Black Veil)", the lyrics refer to characters from the Trials themselves with the song featuring a curious arrangement which jumps from a ballad-style intro to a percussive guitar-driven opus. McNease also includes some unconvincing rapping at the end. The last track "Binx" is more God-focussed with lyrics saying "Be with you again/I wanna be with you again." An intriguing release though its "homemade" feel considerably cuts down on its appeal.

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