When your breakthrough success comes off the back of a Bring Me the Horizon cover, it then becomes a question of how can that success be replicated through the release of your own material? Thankfully for Californian duo This Wild Life, their debut album âHistoryâ was welcomed by widespread acclaim back in 2014, applauding their sensitive acoustic music.
From âHistoryâ to their upcoming âLow Tidesâ, This Wild Life lay bare their feelings once again to deliver raw, visceral songs in a much sweeter setting.
Tracks such as the bittersweet âPull Me Outâ and âBreak Downâ cause the heart to swell and the lungs to come close to breaking point, as emotional and bruising singalongs are encouraged. âJust Yesterdayâ shows off Kevin Jordanâs flawless vocals in full, whilst âBrick Wallsâ is packed with catchy hooks.
An absolute highlight of âLow Tidesâ is âLet Goâ, the sweet female vocals complimenting the slightly rougher vocals of Kevin Jordan. The fantastic vocal interplay really pushes the track to the forefront of the album, making it one of their strongest songs. âFalling Downâ, which is more upbeat and, inviting a full band for the chorus of âI know that youâll be there for meâ, brings home that euphoric feeling of being surrounded by loved ones whoâll help you when life gets tough.
What really makes this album stunning are the blossoming lyrics. âDonât mistake physical affection for emotional connection,â resounds loud and clear in âFadeâ, an apologetic track about becoming distant from a significant other. It seems to reflect the difficulty in finding a connection with someone who you have physical feelings for, but donât connect with on an emotional level. This Wild Life write lyrics that are relatable and honest, yet also gut-wrenching and heart-breaking.
Stripped-back, raw, and vulnerable, âLow Tidesâ is yet another fantastic and heartfelt effort from This Wild Life. Looking at the lows of life, as shown in âRed Roomâ, to the highs, like in âFalling Downâ, this duo have written an incredibly strong album. Each song is written with flair complimenting a solid structure, with beautiful harmonies and catchy melodies. âLow Tidesâ once again shows off how talented This Wild Life are.
JESS TAGLIANI