Album Review: Wolf Am I - Lead The Way

According to Cobra Starship, Pop-punk is so 2005 and Wolf Am I would probably agree with that statement. The 5-piece used to play under the name, Kill The Arcade, a standard up and coming UK pop-punk that had a fair bit of success. However the band decided to ditch all that and return as Wolf Am I, a band which swapped catchy hooks for dark, well-structured songs.

'Lead The Way' shows a band that has grown up and are comfortable with who they are. The record itself is consistent and has plenty of highlights throughout.

Recent single 'Glasgow 7' has a dark aura that leads to light at the end of the tunnel. It's stomping drum beat and strong mix of vocals works well and grabs your attention with ease. 'The Good Life (1975)' is captivating as the band create an atmosphere which leaves you hanging on to every last word, before exploding into textured guitars and personal lyrics, as vocalist Lee Newell pulls you in as he reflects on a troubled situation.

Elsewhere 'Bon Voyage' is fast paced and filled with passion and 'It Moves The Earth' is a somewhat simpler track with a slight catchy hook.

However tracks like 'Down At The Golden Cup' and 'Arabella, You're A Lost Soul' have a hint of the band being their former selves, as the latter has a toe-tapping beat and the former being a fierce through and through rock song.

Closing track, 'Lead The Way' rounds off the record perfectly, with its steady pace that leads to a glorious group vocal part, that after a few listens will have you joining in.

Overall 'Lead The Way' is a superb record. The band's use of captivating lyrics and production effects has enabled them to create a record that flows with ease. At times you have to check to see if you're listening to Brand New or The Cure, as the record's lyrical content is both deep and personal. However the band pull off that style of writing incredibly well. Add to this well-produced, layered songs and you are finished with, a record that is a great achievement and leaves you with the impression that Wolf Am I are a very special band and definitely one to look out for in the future.

5/5

'Lead The Way' by Wolf Am I is available from Alcopop Records from August 10th.
Pre-order 'Lead The Way' here.

'Wolf Am I' on MySpace

Sean Reid