OFF TO “AN EXCITING START” WITH DEBUT EP BY WELSH WOLF

EP REVIEW | WELSH WOLF – A VOYEUR’S DREAM by Jenna Millar

This debut EP from Welsh Wolf is only the beginning of the bold new alter ego from Paul Freeman. LA based musician, Freeman, has an impressive career in the industry prior to this release as he has played as James Blunt‘s guitarist and has worked alongside some of the greats such as Meatloaf, Deane Carter, and Brandi Carlile amongst others. This debut launch reflects the sheer talent that Freeman withholds, a feel-good alternative pop mix that offers an enjoyable listening experience.

The EP, A Voyeur’s Dream first introduces us with an atmospheric swirling of synths until descending into the song’s catchy guitar riff, hooking similarities to The Killers’ most memorable sounds. “When You Cry“ asserts itself as a strong opener to A Voyeur’s Dream, a pop induced single that includes all the right elements to work beautifully when sung to a crowd. Freeman declaring “I don’t believe it when you cry/ I only make it worse” reveals an inner truth and shred of vulnerability; the dreamy guitars and repetitiveness of the song working in its favor.

We then swiftly move to the next track,“Anti-Social Butterfly“, where Freeman utilizes the same energy to power on through. The chorus [“Hey! Is everyone this way? Hiding a lonely face?”] is repeated throughout this track several times, driving the question to the listener. However, the repetitiveness of the guitar riff from the beginning to end of the track keeps this song from being one to remember from this EP.

“Follow The Fear“ takes a new turn for the EP, luring the listening in with its thumping drums and enchanting guitar rhythm until fully lashing into its chorus of chanting and riffing. “Scene of the Crime” strays away from the busyness and high energy of the others, taking a slower approach melodically yet still building for a hearty finish.

The penultimate track “Wreck” is the first single revealed from this EP, a high energy track that keeps the listening hooked with its catchy lyricism and endearing rhythm. This honest track sheds light on Freeman, where we presume his personal truth is shown as he proclaims: “Always a wreck, talking to myself alone/ Always a wreck, running deep in my bones”. The track maintains its’ bouncy beat as he then sings, “I can do it on my own”; an uplifting commencement for an uplifting melody.

We are then brought to the final track of the EP, “The Promise“. This tune takes harbors a much slower pace when compared to the previous tracks, creating a mindful ending to what has been a feel-good fueled collection. Upon listening we can hear and connect to Freeman’s vulnerability in the track, commencing “the shadow of love still lingers”. The use of strings and his raw vocals offer a somber ending, serving as a reminder of his range in sound and emotion.

“I know you gave your best to me but I lost myself when I found my dream” – ‘The Promise’, Welsh Wolf

A Voyeur’s Dream is an exciting start to Freeman’s alter ego after an already highly reputable career. This EP creates feel-good melodic tracks that leave the listener satisfied. Although some sounds may feel repetitive throughout the tracks, Freeman continues to connect to the listener through his lyrics and melodies.

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Jenna Millar

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