HORNED WOLF - Become Like They Are (Mini Review)

This year, in an attempt to cover more music that would all-too-oft slip through the very large cracks, we're trying something new and novel around these parts. Namely, we're gonna actually publish the little one-off reviews that were previously (and arbitrarily) deemed too short for publication. In that spirit, here's a mini-review of a single that has ensnared my attention as of late. Without further ado: 

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Written by: The Administrator

Sometimes, when I'm particularly lucky, a random single will hit the inbox and define the direction of the week to come. Enter today's track in question. Upon first hearing "Become Like They Are" from Lawrence, Kansas' own Horned Wolf, I was hooked. Fully and completely. Entranced, even. I haven't stopped listening over the past seven days.

​This is one hell of a dynamic track, and combines seemingly disparate elements in way that is equally addictive and stirring. I hesitate to even mention the various genres incorporated, as the composition is wholly fluid, combining hooky grooves and progressive sensibilities with a crisp forward momentum. Across the almost-seven-minute-runtime, the mood shifts from high-energy freneticism to emotive balladry, and back again. Despite toeing the line, Horned Wolf never fall into melodrama, nor do they push the limits of extremity and undermine the inherent catchiness of their work. There's no lack of intrigue either, and that's always a quality worth highlighting. 

Beyond the sheer unpredictability of the instrumentation, the vocals are a (very) strong suit, ranging from explosive harsh screams to high-flying poppy cleans. When it sounds like there are, like, three distinct vocalists contributing to the fray, my interest is piqued, and when a vocalist is this damn good, it's a done deal. 

This single has done exactly what a single should do--namely, thoroughly whet my appetite for the promised forthcoming full length. I eagerly await seeing that project land in the ol' promo pit, but in the meantime, this track will certainly continue to see a whole lot of airtime here at ye olde Sleeping Village. Give it a listen below, and check out this sick accompanying music video!

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