The March Violets - Natural History (2026) [Hi-Res]

Review by Bill Cassel

On this collection of singles, the March Violets sound very much like former labelmates the Sisters of Mercy: simple drum programs, droning bass, slashing guitar, and deep, melodic male vocals (with Simon Denbigh as the poor man's Andrew Eldritch). The main thing that distinguishes them from the Sisters is the presence of female vocalist Rosie Garland -- but it doesn't distinguish them much. Natural History is not without its high points -- "Fodder," "Undertow," and especially "Snake Dance," which hints at potential not realized here -- but there's no reason not to get the far superior Sisters compilation Some Girls Wander by Mistake instead.