Wylderness’ sound thrives on a seamless blend of dreamy pop, gritty shoegaze, and raw post-punk energy. Their latest track, “Is It Summer” has a dynamic shift from serene to chaotic that never lets go. Beginning with a delay-drenched riff played on a vintage Vox amp it immediately sets the stage for something both nostalgic and forward-thinking. What makes the song standout is its striking structure that is unfolding in two distinct parts.
The first half evokes cinematic qualities, recalling the moody, atmospheric sound of Interpol, before it erupts in an explosive second half, echoing a wild and untamed spirit. The song’s arrangement cleverly mirrors the chaotic, rapid growth of the 90s tech boom, and this theme resonates through the music’s energetic shifts. The transition from serene to tumultuous feels organic and captures the essence of a time when anything seemed possible, yet unpredictable.
Wylderness may draw inspiration from the likes of Ride, DIIV, Sonic Youth, and Yo La Tengo, but their sound is a dizzy and sun-kissed blend of fuzz-laden guitars that attack with urgency while still retaining a sense of dreamlike ease. The combination of blistering guitar work and hypnotic shoegaze textures gives the song a captivating allure that hooks one from the start.
With its commanding lyrics, adding a defiant edge, they make the song feel even more empowering. Wylderness captures a distinct blend of vintage and modern influences and it’s safe to say their upcoming EP, Safe Mode (TBC 2025), will surely be an EP that feels both timeless and uniquely their own.
