Belfast based band Wolf Like Me have recently launched their E.P. ‘L.E.A.D’. The band, who formed during a Queen’s University Performance module in October 2013, clicked and have spent over a year finding and fine-tuning their unique sound. Performing regularly, and constantly coming up with new material, the band launched ‘L.E.A.D’ on the 18th of June.
The band is comprised of five musicians who play a multitude of instruments including banjo, guitar, piano, fiddle, bass and percussion. The profusion of instruments allows the band to experiment with an abundance of sounds and derive influences from a large range of genres. The E.P. reflects this, consisting of five thoroughly interesting tunes which sample a multitude of genres including flamenco, contemporary, gritty folk, trad, metal and classical.
First tune ‘Moby’ starts off with an abrasive intro kicking into a lively jig and a very catchy chorus. Vocalist Liam McCartan provides the song with his unique rasp which is juxtaposed against singer Claire Smith’s melodic soprano. The band’s sound on this track is something between Skillet, Dropkick Murphy’s, Giant Squid and The Civil Wars. Next song ‘Almighty ruiner’ has a bluegrassy feel to it with generous usage of drones, steady tempo and nice harmonies. The Fiddler players’ considerable talents are utilised well in this track and really add to it’s sound.
Third tune ‘Molly’ is perhaps my favourite in the E.P. It has a sound that juxtaposes country and bluegrass against the soprano and gravel vocals. The lyrics are catchy and it has a sweet melody, great rhythm and an anthemic chorus. The fourth tune, a waltz called ‘Wind’, reminds me slightly of The Waterboys. It begins with a slow and mournful intro evolving into a mesmoring chorus and has appropriate wind like sounds simulated within it. It ends on a dramatic fiddle outro. Final tune ‘Deep Green’ has more of a gritty gothic sound to it. Conducted in minor key, with haunting vocals, mesmorising fiddle and quick percussion, this tune adds a real edge to the album and gives it a powerful ending.
Drawing from a huge spectrum of influences, Wolf Like Me offer a really exciting sound and their E.P. is well worth downloading. With their highly experimental attitude towards music making, and obvious appetite for experimentation, this is a band that shouldn’t go unnoticed.