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There is still a place for simplicity in the vast expanse that is today’s music industry. Simplicity in the sense that music can still stir our emotions with the use of traditional instruments and a tried-and-true formula of poignant storytelling, soothing melodies, and a tantalizing voice. This simplicity is what has resulted in Wild Child slowly winning over more and more fans for the past few years and has made them one of indie music’s small success stories. Their latest album, Fools, doesn’t buzz with synths or electronic over dubs, but instead it’s just classic folk-pop music that warms the soul and leaves a lasting impression.
It all begins with the collective musicianship of each of the band’s six members. From the classical band instruments – guitar, drums, keyboards, bass – to the truly “classical” – violin, cello, and ukelele – the Austin-based band are able to move fluidly from sounding like a small orchestra to a rockabilly, bar-room band. The lead vocals provided usually by Kelsey Wilson and with frequent support from Alexander Beggins are sublime, and it is Wilson’s range that enables Wild Child to tackle a few genres. Their music touches on everything from indie-rock to indie-folk to pop-infused folk.
The title track exemplifies this complete package. The music and vocals ebb and flow like a folk-pop symphony – stirring, tantalizing, and even a touch anti-climatic. “Take It”, meanwhile, exhibits the band’s versatility. The song has a smokey, sultry vibe, where Wilson’s voice carries the song and is complemented by lovely strings. The track is reminiscent of the balladry and engaging folk-pop of Lake Street Dive. “Bad Girl”, on other other, is an upbeat number echoing of the rockabilly sound of the ’50s and ’60s. Grab a partner and do a jive to this tune.
Most of the album, though, is focused on soft, melodic folk-pop numbers – songs that have you gently swaying from side-to-side and humming to the melody. “Bullets” is one of the star attractions and, as Hollie described it back in August, never has a break-up song sounded so good. “Break Bones” adopts a more bluesy and groovy approach. Like “Take It”, Wilson’s voice is smooth and sultry while the tickling of the keys adds a fantastic touch of drama. But where the band takes it to another level is the gorgeous “The Cracks”. The song ascends to dreamy heights with the humming of the strings, Wilson’s voice taking on an angelic quality, and the plucks of the ukelele and bass and taps of the drums providing the palette for it all. If there is another song about letting someone go that sounded as breathtaking as this one, I have yet to hear it. The song – the album – is another reason why more people should get on Wild Child’s bandwagon, a collective on the edge of bigger and brighter things.
You can witness for yourself the hype around Wild Child, who are currently on tour. Dates are below.
Wild Child are Alexander Beggins (vocals, baritone ukulele); Kelsey Wilson (vocals, violin); Evan Magers (keyboards); Drew Brunetti (drums); Sadie Wolfe (cello); and Chris D’Annunzio (bass).
Fools is out now via Dualtone Music Group, the same label that has released the latest albums by Shakey Graves, Noah Gundersen, and Langhorne Slim & The Laws. Purchase Fools at the label’s online store, iTunes, and Amazon.
Website – wildchildsounds.com
Facebook – Wild Child
Twitter – @wildchildsounds
Instagram – @wildchildsounds
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Wild Child Tour Dates
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