On April 6th, 2018, California indie rock band Wallows released their debut EP, Spring. Wallows fans had been waiting for the EP since the band released their debut single, Pleaser, in April of 2017. The band made a quick rise to fame when their singer Dylan Minnette announced the band on his Instagram, popularized by his lead role as Clay Jensen in the TV show “13 Reasons Why”. The other members, Cole Preston and Braeden Lemasters are also actors.
The EP strikes several chords, from nostalgic, sarcastic 1980s Horror Film to heavy hitting Pictures of Girls. Overall, the album has a more relaxed tone than their previously released singles, which are upbeat and guitar-heavy.
Spring opens with a new song, Ground. The laid-back song is perfect for car rides or just hanging out. Wallows’ choice to put it first is interesting, as it’s nature makes it more, well, forgettable. It’s a great song, but from such a dynamic rock band as Wallows, I think they could’ve used something more musically potent.
My favorite new song on the EP is It’s Only Right. A bit more surf-rock inspired, It’s Only Right is a song after my own heart. The tempo switches mid-song, which creates an interesting intensity. It’s Only Right feels like a classic Wallows song. It sticks with their brand, but the variance in background instruments, drum beat, and chorus is what keeps me listening to them– they’re creative and talented, but reliable.
Arguably the most anticipated song on the EP, the digital, recorded version 1980s Horror Film completely lives up to what it sounds like live. I had the pleasure of hearing it in March, and the hype and excitement around it was astronomical. 1980s Horror Film is Wallows’ only true acoustic song thus far, and is sung by their lead guitarist, Braeden Lemasters. I don’t want to give too much of it away because the storyline takes a big turn at the end, but I recommend paying attention to the words as you listen!
For being only a year old, Wallows has achieved a lot. They recently completed a U.S. headline tour, and are playing Lollapalooza in Chicago this summer. Make sure to keep up with them, because right now, they seem unstoppable!
If you like Wallows, check out HUNNY, Declan McKenna, and COIN.
Keep up with Wallows on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Listen to them on Spotify or Apple Music.
