Modern Wolf - (Turn on TV)

Modern Wolf

(Turn on TV)
self-released; 2016

3.6 out of 5

By Andrew Westberry
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Hailing from Vancouver, Canada, Modern Wolf takes stylistic cues from modern pop, ‘90s alternative rock and many other classic songwriting bands like the Beatles, Coldplay and ABBA. In their catchy blend of songs released as an EP in January of this year with the title (Turn on TV). The album explores the modern song and while the lyrics revolve around love and society, the variety of musical soundscapes throughout the album lend a crisp energy to the mix.

A haunting guitar riff begins the record in “Working for You” along with expressive vocals that effortlessly convey a sharp, yet harmonious tone. As the full band brings a steady groove to the already catchy melody, the vocals layer over themselves as they continually build in dynamic and emotive quality, alternating between full voice and falsetto seamlessly. The jazzy chords of “Working For You” are toned down in the power ballad “Delicate Wings,” a highly focused and melodic tune featuring droning, wistful vocals, smooth guitars and percussion.

“Today” amps up the energy of the record as distorted guitars and pounding drums lead the way in the punk-infused rock anthem. One of the faster and more flashy songs on the record, this track definitely shows Modern Wolf’s versatility in embodying multiple genres and styles. The up-tempo stretch extends into “Up Down Baby I,” a groovy, bluesy rock n’ roll song that is easily the most danceable on the record.

The EP comes to a close with “Freedom,” which starts quietly until building drums signal the entrance of the full band’s sound that the listener has become very accustomed to by this point. The vocals maintain a relaxed, yet energetic spirit as the instruments pound, crash and strum to the rapid beat.

Overall, (Turn on TV) is but a small collection of the ocean of talent that Modern Wolf has at its command. The first few songs on the record are quite catchy, but each track gives its own flavor to the blend of the album, a certainly top-notch and hopefully well-appreciated debut for the band.

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