Taken from their debut album, ‘Adult Nights’, California On My Mind is an irresistible taster from New Hampshire band Wildlight. Having supported Arcade Fire and LCD Soundsystem the band have been making a name for themselves over the last year, topped off with winning Outstanding Rock Out at the Boston Music Awards, and its little wonder with tracks like this.
Wonderfully raspy vocals filter through upbeat sunshine fuelled guitars that almost mask the hate filled lyrics by Jordan Alexander. The ‘fuck today…fuck San Francisco…fuck California’ venom is masked behind the bouncing bass line, addictive melody and the sauntering harmonica that has a wonderfully 70’s vibe. The vocal harmonies layer beautifully alongside a great guitar sound, resulting in a wonderfully catchy track.
Having known each other since childhood the band members have played in various other acts (including a stint in an earlier incarnation of Arcade Fire by Tim Kyle) and no member has a decisive role in the band. In this instance we’re treated to Alexander’s endearing vocals, but they switch and change throughout the album. ‘California on My Mind‘ is the perfect introduction from a band who are well worth a listen.
Adult Nights is out now.
Dee Massey