"Live at the Witch Trials" is the debut studio album by the British post-punk band The Fall, released on 16 March 1979 through record label Step-Forward. Despite its title, the album is not a live album but rather, it was recorded at TW Studios in London within a single day.
The band's lineup for the album consisted of Mark E. Smith (vocals), Martin Bramah (guitar), Marc Riley (bass guitar), and Karl Burns (drums). This lineup underwent several changes over time, as would become a common theme throughout The Fall's career due to Smith's mercurial and demanding leadership.
The music on "Live at the Witch Trials" is noted for its raw, minimalist sound and caustic wit, with a wide range of edgy and energetic post-punk tracks throughout. Lyrically, the album was very prominently influenced by science fiction and horror themes, as shown on tracks like "Frightened", "Industrial Estate", and "Two Steps Back".
Upon its release, it received mixed reviews from critics but has retrospectively received recognition and is considered a classic in post-punk music history. Despite its initial mixed reception, it laid the groundwork for what would be an enduring and highly influential career for The Fall.
