Review of Elderberry Wine: Analysis of lyrics, interpretation, and music video on Wednesday | Neon Music

“December is here, and I am still hooked on ‘Elderberry Wine.’ It’s the ultimate test, isn’t it? Songs released in May that stand the test of time beyond their initial release cycle.

‘ Wednesday’ showcased this as their fourth track from the upcoming album ‘Bleeds’ on May 21, marking their return to the music scene since their success with ‘Rat Saw God’ in 2023.

To be transparent from the start, this is ‘Wednesday’ at their best. It’s not the loud, chaotic outbursts or the hushed, gentle ballads; it’s that sweet spot where Xandy Chelmis’s pedal steel work shines, and Karly Hartzman’s lyrics hit hard without screaming.

The opening lines, ‘Ain’t heard that voice in a long time / Had to check back there to make sure you were alive,’ immediately grab your attention with a theme of a relationship that’s present, yet not fully there.

Chelmis’s use of the pedal steel is exceptional. The instrument’s emotive cries throughout the track may seem out of place in 2025, but it works beautifully.

Thanks to producer Alex Farrar’s touch, this track captures the essence of what makes ‘Wednesday’ stand out when firing on all cylinders. While MJ Lenderman’s background vocals and guitar work add depth, it’s Xandy’s show through and through.

Fans might have varying preferences, wanting ‘Wednesday’ to dive into full sludge mode or produce more delicate ballads. Personally, I find myself drawn to tracks like this one, reminiscent of their true essence, not imitating others or straying too far from their core sound.

Hartzman shared in an interview (sorry, can’t recall which one, there were many) that she brings her guitar and lyrics, setting the thematic vision while her bandmates craft the sonic world around it.

This collaborative process shines in the chorus, where Xandy uses the pedal steel feedback to create an emotional crescendo that defies conventional country music norms, showcasing cleverness without being flashy.

Now, let’s discuss the metaphor. Hartzman’s inspiration for ‘Elderberry Wine’ stems from her sister’s experience with raw elderberries, turning healing berries into poison when not prepared correctly.

The song explores the idea that even the sweetest things in life, like love, family, and success, can turn toxic in the wrong circumstances.

Hartzman’s reflection in the chorus, ‘Cause the champagne tastes like elderberry wine / And the pink boiled eggs stay afloat in the brine,’ fuses Southern Gothic imagery with everyday domestic scenes, emphasizing the importance of the environment over quality.

The verses delve into specific moments, from driving with the E-brake on as a metaphor for self-sabotage to the ‘angel hum of an electric car,’ subtly weaving in modern elements without compromising timelessness.

In another interview, Hartzman acknowledged the darker nuances of love songs that delve into the compromises and challenges inherent in loving someone fully.

The music video shot at The Bench in Greensboro, North Carolina, captures the essence of communal spaces like bars, emphasizing a sense of community and warmth without overdoing it.

Despite lineup changes and personal turmoil, ‘Wednesday’ has struck a delicate balance between traditional alt-country sounds and indie rock sensibilities, embracing imperfection and vulnerability, ultimately crafting music that resonates with honesty, not perfection.

This authenticity is why ‘Elderberry Wine’ still holds up months after its initial release. Even amidst transitions, ‘Wednesday’ remains true to their unique sound, making them a band worth checking out, despite the changes in their roster.

In conclusion, ‘Wednesday’ continues to deliver exceptional music, blending traditional country elements with modern sensibilities, creating a unique sound that portrays the complexities of relationships and life with raw honesty.”