The last time Wilderness came through L.A., they headlined a show that was under-attended and inexcusably short. I don’t remember exactly how few songs they played, but it was a 30 minute or so set, and my disappointment with their lack of stamina overshadowed what was otherwise a pretty engaging show. They played almost entirely songs off of their recent release at the time, Vessel States, but based on what appeared to be a disdain for the L.A. audience (combined with their relative silence since), I got the impression that it would be the first and last time I’d have a chance to see them.
But I hoped to hear more from them. I even put them on my most anticipated list for the year (though Zoviet was quick to point out that with no news from them, it was unlikely anything would be coming). And so it came as complete surprise to find out that Wilderness was back, and playing only 4 shows on the west coast of all places. They played Spaceland last night and will be ending this short exposure tomorrow night at The Casbah in San Diego.
If you aren’t already into Wilderness, I don’t really know how to help you. Forget comparisons, they are unlike anyone else out there. My least favorite music reviewer’s assesment of Vessel States mischaracterized this uniqueness in comparisons to PIL, Fugazi and Lungfish. You could not possibly listen to Wilderness alongside any other band and think that they sounded like them. They may give hints of their influences - I’d add Joy Division - but to say they sound like anyone else is ridiculous. They only play their most recent songs at shows; much as the 2006 show at The Echo consisted of only tracks from their recent LP, the show last night consisted entirely of new songs (well, actually I think I might have heard “Living Through“). The vocals are uncanny (I have to stand by my assessment back in 2005 that James Johnson’s chant-like singing sounds like a Lord Of The Rings wizard conjuring up a spell). Their drums are far more inspired than other acts that get credit for their percussion. Probably the most conventional aspect would be the guitar and bass, but even these have a fullness with minor-key harmonies that one would be hard-pressed to match.
I find myself captivated by the band’s live intensity and last night was as intense as ever. They don’t even take a break between songs. I guess I’m also captivated by Johnson’s slow-motion kung-fu dance moves. Its as if everything about Wilderness is unique to the band - right down to the stage performance. Regardless of some sub-par mixing (the vocals were totally muffled), the new songs were good. I’m assuming that these represent the next LP, and that this left-coast tour is an opportunity for them to try out the new songs away from home. I’m just happy that the show 2 years ago didn’t turn out to be the end.
I cant wait for new music from these guys. I agree they dont sound like anyone else. I kept hearing they sounded like Lungfish too, so I broke down and d/l some Lungfish only to say “huh?”. A sprinkle of something doesnt mean they sound like someone.
I was really dissapointed when cryptic messages on the jagjaguwar website turned to silence and then their band site went down. I’m so glad these guys are keeping at it. They truly are a special band and one of my favorites. I compare them to Joy Division more with their intensity than music.