Josiah Wolf

Key tracks:

The Trailer and the Truck
Ohioho
The Opposite of Breathing

Label: Anticon

Read Description:

Bon Iver style chamber pop led by acoustic guitars and a sensitive vocal

Josiah Wolf is best known as the drummer from genre-blending US band WHY? but Jet Lag marks his triumphant first album as a solo artist. Wolf’s poems are set to an autumnal mix of warm folk and easy psychedelia played out on a set of instruments including guitar, vibes, Hammond organ and bells. The textures are layered and lush, providing poignant delicacy broken by moments of real force. Wolf’s voice is deep and straight at times and impossibly fragile at others, reminding on occasions of Bill Callahan’s rich, deep drawl. The end result of all the above is a sort of chamber pop minus the showy sweeps, making Jet Lag a timeless heartfelt listen.

‘The Trailer and The Truck’ is a song of contrasts. The perfect starter to this beautiful album, it begins softly and then hits you with drums and chugging guitar, all underpinned by a beautiful, emotive vocal. ‘Ohioho’ is full of optimism - warm guitar layers and vocal reverb sit on top of plinky plonky vibes and piano, providing a really summery vibe. ‘The Opposite of Breathing’ reminds of the naivety and honesty of Daniel Johnston. A mellow track with acoustic guitar at its heart and a built up chorus for a perfect lift. Lovely indeed.