Review
Wild Rivers' self-titled debut album is a beautiful tapestry of indie folk, woven with threads of pop and rock. Released in 2016, this Canadian trio's first offering is a journey through emotional landscapes, painted with warm, twang-touched melodies that evoke the spirit of 1970s Laurel Canyon rock. The album's sound is rooted in folk traditions but branches out, hinting at the genre-fluid approach they'd explore in later works.
At the heart of this album are the harmonies. Co-lead vocalists Khalid Yassein and Devan Glover's voices intertwine like two streams merging into a river, creating a sound that's both soothing and stirring. Their vocal blend is complemented by Andrew Oliver's nimble bass and guitar work, while acoustic guitar and melodic piano passages add depth to the album's intimate atmosphere.
The lyrics on 'Wild Rivers' are like whispered confessions, candid and often heartbreaking. Songs like 'Paul Simon' showcase the band's gift for crafting emotionally resonant pieces that feel both personal and universal. This debut is a promising start, setting the stage for Wild Rivers' future explorations while firmly establishing their talent for creating soul-stirring, introspective music that invites listeners to lose themselves in its gentle currents. - Ariana