Concert Review: Wolf Alice Comes Out Strong At Barclay’s Center
Rock-n-roll or hard rock can, sometimes, feel like it needs to be in your face to be “strong.” It can have the idea that being “hard” means just being noise. Yet, Wolf Alice proves that rock can be strong in its message through firmness and not brute aggression.
My analogy may sound off as you question the difference between aggression and firmness, but when you see Wolf Alice live, you will understand. They are so vibrant and invigorated as they hit the stage that they are nothing less than a prime example of confidence. As Ellie Rowsell, Joff Oddie, Theo Ellis, and Joel Amey play their instruments, they move as if they have been awakened. They shake and toss like a group of people that have received a more heightened understanding of music and life. Hence, my analogy of firmness. They are so alive on stage that they exude strength.
Musically. the band sounds like a raging storm of goodness. In songs like, “You’re A Germ,” their guitar and bass riffs, heavy, brick-like drumming, and synthetic electricity can make you feel like you are surrounded by a lightning storm. As the wind and darkened clouds surround you, it is the voice of Ellie Rowsell that reminds you to keep still and calm. Her smoky voice is distinguished by its ability to make you feel empowered. She crosses vulnerability with resilience though every note she sings. Again, I bring back the word: firmness. She exudes a natural strength in presence that marks every lyric a message to listeners: whether she is displaying love or disappointed by life, Rowsell will always rise. This phoenix-like quality is what gives the band its fiery-ash sound, while also incorporating an enlivening sentiment. Moreover, for fans nostalgic of the 90’s alternative rock/ indie scene, Wolf Alice will feel like a call to home.
Freazy
There is a fresh, newness to Wolf Alice because they sound like a 90’s reincarnation. They sound new in elevating the old elements of indie rock that should have never left. When they do not summon stormy imagery, songs like, “Freazy,” can make you feel like you are watching 90’s bands’ Garbage or The Cranberries. There is a hidden element of what I call, psychotropic pop. It is when pop music clashes with psychedelia to make you feel like you are taking an otherworldly trip. On that trip you might ride a unicorn or graffiti every home that your high school bullies live in, either way you feel an out of body catharsis. Wolf Alice gives you that experience when you hear them play, which is why you should do yourself the favor. For More Information on Wolf Alice: Official Site.
