Out this Friday is Devon trio Wildwood Kin’s second album, Wildwood Kin.I first discovered Wildwood Kin (comprised of sisters Beth and Emillie Key, and their cousin Meghann Loney) in early 2017, as they opened for Ward Thomas on their Cartwheels tour. I was blown away by the smooth harmonies, beautiful lyrics and pounding beats. I left that show not only with a copy of their EP but as a new fan, eager for more.
Turning Tides, the album they put out shortly afterwards, was one of my favorite releases that year. I saw them on their headline tour in 2018 and that was, also, a year highlight.
Needless to say I was very excited to listen to their second album, Wildwood Kin.
And, again, I was not disappointed.
What has made me such a fan of their music is that it always feels like an experience, as opposed to mere entertainment. Their songs have purpose. They make you think, they uplift you and they’re also really fun to sing along to. For those that believe in the adage that music is medicine for the soul then this album is the best antidote.
Take the track ‘Beauty in Your Brokenness’. It’s a song about self-acceptance, to grow to love and embrace your flaws. ‘Never Alone’ is another track of encouragement, reassuring the listener that, even if they’re struggling, help is always there and happier times are possible.
‘Breathe’ stresses the importance of taking a moment to stop, to take the time to breathe even during the craziness of life. ‘The Crown’ talks about how fame/success is fickle and should not be relied on for happiness. And ‘Time Has Come’, their latest single, is all about empowerment, about how we can all be heroes simply by using our voice to stand up for what we believe in.
Musically, Wildwood Kin is a stellar album with stunning vocals and arrangements. More generally speaking, this album is a ray of positivity in an often bleak world.
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Wildwood Kin is out this Friday.
