Big Wild trades anthems for introspection on his most spacious record yet.

Big Wild’s new album Wild Child finds him exploring a looser, more spacious sound. Jackson Stell, the man behind the Big Wild project, has always walked the line between electronic production and indie pop. Here, he leans into airy textures and wide open arrangements, creating an album that feels relaxed, thoughtful and even mysterious at times.

The album kicks off with “Farewell,” setting the tone with big reverb and floating vocals. Songs like “Universe” (with iDA HAWK) and “Anymore” (with Twen) show off Big Wild’s collaborative side, pulling in soulful and rock inspired touches. “Too Loud,” featuring Phantogram, stands out as one of the bolder tracks with Sarah Barthel’s vocals bringing an edge to the hazy mix. Still, most of the record isn’t about big singles or obvious hooks. It’s more about creating an atmosphere that washes over the listener.

Much of that atmosphere stems from the production. Vocals sit far back in reverb, making them feel distant but dreamy, almost like they’re echoing through a canyon. It gives the songs a similar vibe to Tame Impala – very smooth and psychedelic, but less focused on electronic beats. The overall sound is consistent throughout the album, which makes it feel cohesive even if no single track stands out immediately.

The biggest exception is the album closer, “Strangeland.” It moves away from the drifting mood towards a driving house beat, giving the album a satisfying jolt of energy before it ends. For fans of Big Wild’s more dance-driven work, it is likely to be a highlight!

In the end, Wild Child is an album that prioritizes vibe over impact. It’s adventurous but not overwhelming, spacious but not empty. While it may not hit as hard as Big Wild’s past anthems, it’s the kind of record that invites you to sink into its atmosphere and get lost for a while.