Champions of independent music, The Wilder Blue, have been carving out a unique path in music since their 2020 debut album, Hill Country. Led by Zane Williams, the five-person band falls somewhere between Americana, country, mariachi, and southern rock, bringing elements of many different genres. With harmonies far superior to many mainstream bands being recognized for Duo or Band of the Year at the major award shows, they are very reminiscent of The Eagles as they come together on each song.
At a mere nine tracks, the project is classified as an “album.” However, it’s hard to categorize this as a full body of work because it leaves the listener wanting more so often. The album lacks a clear direction, with a collection of songs that feel disjointed. There’s a consistent theme of traveling and a nomadic way of life throughout each tune, but it’s not strong enough to tie together a cohesive concept throughout the project. The notion of cohesion throughout isn’t 100% necessary for every album, but it helps the listener focus on a certain mindset when listening from top to bottom.
Despite the project being nine tracks, many tracks feel longer than they really are. The structure and pacing of some tracks stretch out moments for buildup, only to lead to a bridge that lacks emotional impact. Once the bridge of “Modern Man (Mountain Heart)” hits, it feels like the melody will never end with repeating the same chord progression. A lot of this project feels very directionless, creating a very lackluster listening experience. The album’s closing track, “The Queen of Austin,” is a melancholy tune that reminisces on old times. However, like the rest of the album, it just lingers too long. Every note Zane Williams sings could be trimmed without losing the song’s somber tone, especially given its already subdued production.
Although the project is confusing, each track finds ways to shine in its own right. The album’s title track, “Still in the Runnin’,” is a total standout with its earthy undertones and groovy production. Zane Williams wrote every tune on the album and crafted each melody with passion and care. This allows him to flex the creative side of his brain and tell intricate stories that aren’t always true to his life, building a mini-universe inside each song. It immerses the listener in each story, showcasing Williams’ skill in showing rather than telling.
Collectively produced by the entire band, they create a rich, organic sound that feels natural to the listener. The album was recorded in studios in California, Texas, and North Carolina, with the influences of each region clearly coming through—infusions of bluegrass, neo-western, and southern rock sounds make for an authentic record that highlights the backgrounds of each member. Unfortunately, a lot of this album blends together in ways that make it difficult to distinguish each track.
Overall, the album feels very sleepy, and tracks that weren’t released prior as singles likely won’t get the recognition they deserve. The first single from this record was released nearly a year before the whole project, and these singles were given the ability to grow and develop. Unfortunately, though, intricate stories like “The Queen of Austin” won’t likely get the recognition it deserves because of the rollout.
A singular cohesive theme isn’t essential for a great album, but it enhances the listening experience. Each song stands on its own, showcasing the detailed craftsmanship Zane Williams brings to his music. “Still in the Runnin’” and “Pass it on Down” felt like a return to the band’s original ways of their debut album, Hill Country. The primary issues of this album stem from the record’s structure, not the music itself. Though many songs share a similar feel, each track stays true to Wilder Blue’s funky, bluegrass-inspired country sound.
6.8
