Wednesday Releases Emotionally raw New Album, Evoking Heartbreak
Wednesday bandmates Karly Hartman and MJ Lenderman ended their romantic relationship just one month before recording their album, “Bleeds,” which was released on September 19. This breakup deeply influenced the lyrical content of the record, infusing it with raw emotion and heartache.
In the track “Wound Up Here (By Holding On),” the band’s founder, frontwoman, and primary lyricist, Karly Hartman, reflects on regrettable experiences, singing about watching a Phish concert and the movie “Human Centipede,” things she now wishes she had never seen.
The album “Bleeds” delves into a myriad of emotions inspired by true crime podcasts, poetry books, and Hartzman’s personal encounters in North Carolina. It kicks off with “Reality TV Argument Bleeds,” a song that encapsulates Hartzman’s creative process and how she draws inspiration from various aspects of life.
Tracks like “Townies” and “Wound Up Here (By Holding On)” touch upon themes of substance abuse, nostalgia, and loss, drawing from Hartzman’s life experiences in North Carolina. The lyrics in “Townies” recount a turbulent relationship and tragic end with lines like, “You died,” portraying the profound impact of loss and heartbreak.
Conversely, “Elderberry Wine,” the album’s first single, offers a more subdued tone, highlighting Hartzman’s emotive vocals. Despite its gentle melody, the song explores the complexities of relationships and memories, echoing the pain of a broken union.
In “The Way Love Goes,” Hartzman continues to introspect on her past relationship, expressing sentiments of self-doubt and longing. The song serves as a reflective piece on self-worth and emotional growth following a painful breakup.
Transitioning into “Pick Up That Knife,” the album takes a darker turn, delving into themes of self-loathing and despair through searing lyrics. The track “Wasp” encapsulates this anguish with vivid imagery and intense vocals, showcasing a raw and visceral sound.
Closing the album with “Gary’s II,” Wednesday paints a poignant picture of a man named Gary embroiled in a bar fight, poignantly recounting his loss and regret. The track serves as a somber yet evocative conclusion to the band’s introspective journey.
“Bleeds” is a poignant indie alt-rock masterpiece that lays bare Hartzman’s storytelling prowess, vulnerability, and artistic depth. With its gritty instrumentals and haunting lyrics, the album encapsulates a range of emotions—from heartbreak to nostalgia—prompting listeners to delve into the raw, unfiltered world of Wednesday’s music.
Listeners can find “Bleeds” on various streaming platforms, experiencing firsthand the emotional rollercoaster of heartache, introspection, and musical artistry that defines the band’s latest offering.