Heart of the Golden Mystics by Winchester 7 & the Runners: Album Review

by Damien Reid January 12, 2023

January 12, 2023

Winchester 7 & the Runners create truly spectacular music pertaining to the genre of vintage funk, and retro rock, with a modern indie twist. Brimming with catchy vocal sections and colorful instrumental bits, their album “Heart of the Golden Mystics” is an appropriately placed title for an exuberant experience.

The album opens up with two marvelously fast-paced numbers entitled “The Saint Simon Killer Returns” and “Her Double Life.” The first one is a charming classic rock track filled with captivating lyrics and a lovely guitar riff to go along with it. Aside from that, disco-style synthesizers are present to give the track a jazzy groove. The second track brings along that vintage funk aesthetic mentioned before. Something about the atmosphere of the track reminds you of 60s pop music allure, at the same time the electronic vibes bring along the vibe of 80s disco. “Miss Merry’s Memoriam” is one of the more bluesy tracks of the album, incorporating some weighty guitar fillers and passionate vocal sections for a splendid sound.

The psychedelic vibes of “Things Would Never Be the Same” was a trippy tune to feel. Starting from the fuzzy guitar sequences to the overwhelming intensity of the synthesizers, it’s a wild melodic journey all the way. There’s a bonus track at the end of the album, and it was indeed a polished surprise to hear. “Bizarre Love Triangle” is immensely enchanting and incorporates dance-worthy electronica segments mixed with slow rock bits.