The Swirling Sound of Wombo

Louisville is making a significant mark on independent music this year. Bonnie Prince Billy released an excellent country-ish record in the early spring, Ryan Davis is receiving effusive praise for “New Threats from the Soul,” and Wombo is on the verge of releasing an album that will likely propel them to bigger stages and larger audiences.

Wombo’s “Danger in Fives” comes out tomorrow, and the first four singles give a clear glimpse into the band’s evolving sound. Overall, they’ve masterfully revived a very specific early- to mid-aughts mood and aesthetic on these tunes. Think the golden age of bands like Blonde Redhead and Enon — moody, swirling pop tunes with haunting vocals and pronounced and fractured lead guitar work. 

The titular single embodies all of these qualities. A steady and looping rhythm section undergirds faraway singing from Sydney Chadwick. Then, abruptly, a hammering lead guitar slips in and dismantles the tonal landscape of the song. It’s surprising and engrossing.

The other three songs have their own distinct flair, but they also feel consistent and aligned sonically with the opener. 

When listening to the band, I can’t help but think of a great idea/term posed by Jonathan Richman in Todd Haynes’ documentary about the Velvet Underground. When reflecting on his appreciation for VU, Richman noted that they could achieve what he called a “group sound” — in other words, their generative sonic cohesion produced noises and mysterious and blended environmental elements that the listener could not trace back to a single member or instrument. It’s magic. And, in my mind, Wombo is doing just that.

Be sure to check out the first four singles on various streaming platforms today and cue up the full record tomorrow morning. Also, visit Fire Talk’s website for details on their upcoming tour.