Review of Wot Gorilla?’s album “Stay Home”
After fourteen years since their debut, the band Wot Gorilla? from Halifax has made a grand return with their second album, known as Stay Home. For those who have not yet heard of them, they are hard to pin down in terms of genre but fit within the realm of math-pop. To my ears, they bring together influences from bands like The Mars Volta and At The Drive-In, with a touch of Foals added in. If you are already a fan of their work, Stay Home might catch you off guard. The band has clearly refined their skills, allowing themselves to unleash their full potential on this album without holding back.
The album kicks off with the track called “No Side To Sit,” which sets the tone for what is to come in the following tracks. It is one of the band’s heaviest songs to date, featuring vocals that are more akin to post-hardcore than conventional math-pop. The drums are relentless, the guitar work is sharp and intricate, and the time signatures constantly change, keeping the listener on their toes. Just when you think it couldn’t get any heavier, the song shifts to cleaner vocals and a pop feel, showcasing a brilliant balance between heaviness and lightness throughout.
The title track, “Stay Home,” along with “Young Man’s Game,” stands out as one of the highlights of the album. Starting with a cathartic scream, the song builds up tension through slow-fast drumming and escalating guitars, delving into themes of feeling lost and nostalgic for pre-lockdown days. These lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the emotional upheaval brought on by the pandemic, making this track particularly impactful.
Songs like “15q11.2” and “Maybe You Shouldn’t Be Living Here” serve as good entry points for new listeners, blending the band’s newer sound with elements from their older work. “Clowns” harkens back to their debut style, offering a lighter, more pop-oriented track compared to the rest of the album.
“Thermometer” provides a brief interlude with a nostalgic answering machine snippet before diving into “Young Man’s Game,” a song that reflects on the insecurities of playing in a band as one grows older. The addition of a saxophone in this track adds a unique layer to the music, underscoring the anxious yet reflective nature of the lyrics.
Overall, Stay Home feels like an album intended for live performances, with songs that are likely to come alive on stage. The band’s commitment to their craft shines through in every track, offering something a bit out of the ordinary for listeners. As more people give this album a chance, it is evident that Wot Gorilla? deserves greater recognition for their efforts. The vulnerability expressed in tracks like “Young Man’s Game” resonates deeply, urging listeners to pay attention to what the band has to offer.
In conclusion, Stay Home is a testament to the band’s dedication and creativity, showcasing a range of emotional depths and musical styles. It is an album that demands to be heard and appreciated for its unique approach to math-pop and its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. Wot Gorilla? has certainly produced something special with this release, and they deserve the attention and recognition that comes with it.