This is technically a compilation, but functionally an album: three standalone tracks from this year, bundled with other singles released since their last effort (which is somehow 5 years old). I wish they had ordered the tracks chronologically, because the pandemic’s impact on their sound would be more obvious. Wye Oak came into the decade touting crisper, brighter tones and assertive beats, with a melodic synth or guitar at the center. Since then something has reawakened their dream pop instincts, with Wasner’s voice putting in most of the work above airy timbres that evoke a warm, grassy breeze at the end of summer. The lyrics are ponderous as usual, but I also detect a somber thread weaving its way through these songs, a thread that tries to pass for acceptance of the state of personal affairs and relationships.
7
2023, Merge