Words by: Jack Humphrey

With a gutsy, hard-rocking spirit and some real head-banging hooks, new alternative duo Wilder. has made their grand entrance onto the scene with an EP that’s sure to rattle some cages. BAD BAD LUCK presents as a concise yet powerful collection of songs — firmly establishing California natives Stephen Ramos and Nick Sturz as prolific, inventive musicians with a fresh aesthetic and a real zeal for what they do. Draped in shades of Cage the Elephant and drizzled with a little bit of Catfish & the Bottlemen, this EP showcases a strong start to these new comer’s group career. Bold, distorted guitars and bass are at the center of all of it, while Stephen Ramos’s distinct vocals carry every one of these soaring hooks to their fullest potential.

BAD BAD LUCK kicks off with the up-tempo single “See Through.” Boasting a minor-scale guitar riff connotative to the classic strutting sounds of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, a la “Give It Away” or “Can’t Stop.” The chorus, however, breaks out into a less staccato, more reckless pop-punk demeanor. “See Through” is definitely a fun introduction to this bold new act, giving new listeners a pretty great snapshot of the duo’s sound and style.

“bitemytongue” follows this solid opener, packing an even heavier punch. Stephen Ramos flashes back across his youth and recalls his worst mistakes, wondering if he’ll be forever trapped in his seemingly unending cycle of poor choices. The chugging distorted guitar riff brings an extra edge to the track, bolstered by arena-ready drums and a build towards the end that affirms Wilder. as an act with spirit. More akin to the anthemic fury of Bring Me the Horizon than anything else, “bitemytongue” is intense, catchy, and veritably brimming with emo mania.

The EP’s title track shows off a more subdued side of the group; this rambling, mid-tempo moment of introspective wondering sees Ramos in a frustrated emotional spiral. He’s on the cusp of a new relationship with someone who’s eager to get to know him, and reserved as he usually is, the Wilder. frontman also hoping to finally bare his soul to someone. However, he’s still vigilantly aware of the demons that disquiet his thoughts and fears letting someone he cares for see the darkest parts of him. It’s definitely a more thoughtful moment from the hard-rocking duo that gives some depth and gravitas to the eponymous EP.

With a more indie-rock twist, Wilder. turns up the face-paced momentum once again on “Oh No.”  It’s indubitably less aggressive and disquieted compared to BAD BAD LUCK’s first two cuts, but no less energetic. Urgency and insistence propel “Oh No’s” lead character in his longing to get out of the town he’s in, wherever that may lead him. The track’s fast-moving musicality totally reflects those desperate feelings, barely letting off the gas from start to finish.

Of this release the band shares, “After such a long time in anticipation, we are thrilled to finally release this EP. It’s an accurate reflection of who we are today, and an ode to our journey up until now. From establishing our presence as artists over the past 10 years, to the pains of letting our old band go, as well as outgrowing certain relationships and leaving organized religion; This EP tells the story of it all. The page has finally turned, and it’s time to get wild!”

Throughout their eclectic debut EP, Wilder. delivers a seamless blend of their biggest influences. With some heavier cuts more indebted to late ’90s post-hardcore rock, as well as some lighter indie-rock that takes more cues from the cleaner guitar sounds that permeate much of modern alternative radio. The passion that might’ve turned fans on to Ramos and Sturz’s previous band Hearts Like Lions is very much alive throughout their latest creative endeavor. The lyrical content is strong and the band sell it all with conviction and creativity. Throughout the many moods and themes of BAD BAD LUCK, Wilder. is definitely an act worth keeping your eyes on.

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