Well Wishers – The Lost Soundtrack

Back in 2014, Jeff Shelton was asked to write songs for an indie film soundtrack. As so often happens, the film never got made. However, all that work has resulted in a brand new Well Wishers album entitled The Lost Soundtrack – one that is very much worth your ear.

Those familiar with A View From Above or any of the prior Well Wishers albums will hear the expected influences such as Sloan, Bob Mould and REM. Here’s the thing though. There’s something fresh about this new batch of songs. Perhaps it’s due to the fact that Shelton was writing to an assigned topic. Or maybe, the songs are just really, really catchy. Either way, even if Jeff didn’t get his soundtrack and a big pay day, we as listeners benefit big time from the fruits of his labor.

The lead off track, “Back Door”, is one big fuzzy hook. Roll the top down on the car and crank this one.

As soon as you hear the bass line for “Free”, you know you’re in for a real treat. With an irresistible, soaring chorus and some gorgeously chiming guitars, “Free” is one of 2019’s best tracks. And the piano driven “Layover” changes things up a bit, giving us a moment to take a breath before jumping into the adrenaline soaked “Someplace”.

There is so much here to like that I could go on and on. Bottom line is, this is one of Jeff’s best in my opinion. I’m sorry the film didn’t happen for him but so pleased he found his way to release it for all of us to hear. Expect to see The Lost Soundtrack in our end of the year best of list.

Get the digital version here or the physical CD from Kool Kat Musik.