When it comes to the indie-rock band Wavves, it’s best to let go of the drama and just appreciate the music for what it is. For Nathan Williams, the singer-songwriter of the band, he isn’t shy with living life hard, being open about drugs and alcohol (reference his performance at Primavera Sound in 2009), and voicing his opinion in other places than just his song lyrics (check Twitter). But with six studio albums (and a couple of switches with his lineup and label), his music is still what’s at his core.
The band’s first self-titled album was released in 2008, followed by Wavvves in 2009–two releases that are prime examples of their DIY sound that’s soaked with an angsty garage-rock vibe–guitars that are heavy and noisy, scratchy and relentless, and an energy that pushes you to the edge and makes you want to just let loose, let go, get crazy. It isn’t until their third album called King of the Beach that was released on Fat Possum Records, that the band’s sound begins to ease into more of a pop-punk territory–one that’s sunny and quirky, colorful and fun, as heard on songs like “Idiot” and “Convertible Balloon.”
On the album No Life for Me, Wavves collaborates with Dylan Baldi of the band Cloud Nothings, and their sixth studio album is out this year called You’re Welcome that’s to be released right after a brief tour with Blink 182. This album will be released on their own indie label, Ghost Ramp, and embraces the band’s earlier mission of playing music their way and with their own rules, while resisting the corporate world of labels and all the madness that can come with it.
Bowery Ballroom
5/12
9 p.m.
$20
ticketfly.com
Leave a Comment