This Wild Life – Clouded
Review by Haley Black
This Wild Life have caught the ears of many post-hardcore and alternative rock lovers, sharing fans with a specific breed of musicians that probably wouldn’t be suspected at first listen. Even Spotify compares the duo (Kevin Jordan and Anthony Del Grosso) to Chiodos, Sleeping With Sirens, and Memphis May Fire. However, I hear more of a City and Colour (who is one of their musical influences) resemblance with acoustic guitars predominantly driving the melodies of their debut album, Clouded.
The debut takes a much different route than the band’s previous EP, Heartflip, which sounds like traditional pop-punk with upbeat guitar riffs and rapid drum beats, providing a lot of substance with a multitude of sounds. There is even a line or two of quick screams embedded in Heartflip. Ten tracks of nonstop acoustic guitar strumming and fluid harmonies comprise Clouded. This may be boring for some, but like the Brand New song “Mix Tape” says, I’m “a sucker for anything acoustic.”
Lyrically, the album is a typical composition of break-up ballads with angsty undertones and lovely serenades, which is actually very similar to their previous EP. “Better With You” is an extremely sappy track for all of the hopeless romantics out there, and the addition of violins add an extra dramatic impact to “No More Bad Days.”
One of the singles, “History,” is the catchiest song on the album (the singles usually are). The chorus presents a solid display of Kevin Jordan’s smooth vocal ability and range. “History,” along with “Concrete” are the more slightly bitter songs: “You fucked up, yeah you fucked up/yeah, I thought we’d live off love but it was not enough, not enough.”
The album in its entirety is full of lyrics of self-reflection and a solemn, stripped down instrumentation that perfectly matches the appeal of vulnerability that is expressed throughout each track. Clouded is the ideal relaxation album for the summer. This Wild Life will be the new go-to band for listeners to wind down and feel at peace. Make sure you all take a break from baking in the sun and moshing to check out This Wild Life’s set this summer at Warped Tour.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Recommended Tracks: “History,” “Concrete” and “Looking Back”
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