Wizard Rock Band Potterwatch Drop Debut Album
The wizarding world has influenced the music industry since the Harry Potter books were first released. From the music that was written for the films, to the video game soundtracks, to fan-made musicals, and of course the creation of the sub-genre wizard rock, Harry Potter’s world has left its mark.
This week saw a new wizard rock band hit the scene. Potterwatch was formed in San Diego during the pandemic, with an aim to focus on social justice through the lens of the wizarding world. Its debut album, Follow the Light, was released on all streaming platforms on Halloween, giving us all something to listen to while getting into costumes for trick-or-treating. There are 12 tracks to dig your teeth into, all based on different elements of the wizarding world while still connected to issues in the Muggle world as well.
View this post on Instagram
The band posted a magical countdown on Instagram for the album, sharing posts with wizarding world facts based on the number of days left before its release. From connecting eight days to the eighth-floor atrium of the Ministry of Magic to reminding us all that there is only one Chosen One on the day before it dropped, the countdown made sure we were all up to date on our trivia before we got to listen to the music.
Potterwatch is also turning its lyrics into action. Half of the proceeds from this album will be donated to the LGBTQ+ charities the Trevor Project and Mermaids UK. Both charities aim to support LGBTQ+ youth, with Mermaids UK focusing on young transgender people and the Trevor Project offering a 24/7 crisis support service and resources to help queer youth.
The album release also came with new merch from the band, including t-shirts, tote bags, and patches. You can check out the album on all streaming platforms, as well as Potterwatch’s Bandcamp page.
Which song is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
