Wolf Alice’s third album rapidly entangles us in between rhythms and a spectacle of asseverations and questions from lead singer and guitarist, Ellie Rowsell. Blue Weekend is the third studio album from the band, produced by Markus Dravs (Arcade Fire, Florence & the Machine, Coldplay). “The Beach” — the opening track of the record — puts Roswell front and centered, a bit shy at first, but still effervescent in her storytelling which slowly builds up character and shape as the song explodes alongside the band coinciding with the “thunder, lighting, in rain” reference that comes up earlier in the track. We are finally reunited, together, amidst creation and life, resuming at last. “The Beach” is a window into the band’s story, carved and crafted against images to ensure we can as well visualize what the four-piece is presenting to us. For example, in “Delicious Things” which is a relatable-pop ensemble we are taken to Los Angeles and showed the most basic of things and the monstrosity of keeping up with the nightlife in Hollywood through observation. Sort of a medium where real life and fantasy (or expectation) collide, and identities are ultimately torn apart. “Extravaganza disguised as elegance is boring,” sings Rowsell, which is the back and forth of this California-inspired track, between popping pills and doings lines of blow, we are witnessing how Ellie manages to keep herself together and not “lose sight.” A sort of note-to-self blessed with guitar riffs that are nothing but the guide to the wild ride. Guitarist Joff Oddie’s thunderous riffs are playfully menacing, when Rowsell dabs into rapping over the fun beat in “Smile”, which coincidentally manages to interplay between the verses and the chorus.
What is really significant about this record is that the dynamics in their songs have been elevated. Wolf Alice has managed to contribute a cinematic collection of songs that will define them and break them — for good. There is more confidence, a swift in attitude that shows in their songwriting and in the production of Blue Weekend. They have taken who and what we love them for and amplified it. “How Can I Make It Ok?” does just that, like a ride in time to Visions of a Life — a record that masterfully created a world where Wolf Alice shined in a more alternative spectrum of classic and alternative rock. And we see in this track very specific moves, a more playful Rowsell, a great dynamic with drummer Joel Amey who’s a great companion as a backing vocalist, and a chance for bassist Theo Ellis to take new chances and sometimes lead more. We hear more of Rowsell’s impeccable vocal range — clean high notes, effervescent screams, even, when needed. Blue Weekend allows the foursome to create clearer memories through cohesive musical pathways. I mean, give it to them to morph completely and pull together “Play the Greatest Hits” — even in excess there’s perfection. From stripped and simple harmonious sceneries to amazing build-ups and dramatic and crunching riffs. Blue Weekend is a beautiful cinematic nod to genres from the past and future. Do not try to stand still on this one.
Blue Weekend is out now via Dirty Hit/RCA Records.