Witherfall Release Chilling Acoustic Version of “Ode to Despair”

Melodic progressive metallers Witherfall have released an acoustic version of their most successful single to date, “Ode to Despair,” in honor of their upcoming tour alongside symphonic metal giants Sonata Arctica. James “Timabli” Cornwell of Earth, Wind & Fire provided percussion for the track, and if that doesn’t make you want to listen to this song right this instant it’s time for some self-reflection.

I love acoustic covers, especially when they showcase talent (so please send some of your subpar indie tracks the other way), because they convey a whole different feeling than electric guitars. I once read an article that explained that we get goosebumps from listening to music when we hear an unexpected tone or melody, and I think acoustic music does that for me repeatedly because it isn’t a style I’m accustomed to hearing. Don’t get me wrong, the original version of “Ode to Despair” is enough to give me chills, particularly when the guitars finally come in a minute into the song after a long build up. But the acoustic version carries a more sorrowful mood, best conveyed in such an operatic way, with the use of unexpected Spanish-style melodies and glorious power metal vocals that are sure to send a shock through your spine and give you that much sought after case of the goosebumps.

Witherfall’s acoustic version of “Ode to Despair” will be included in their upcoming Vintage EP which can be pre-ordered here. Take yourself on a melodic journey by streaming the track below.