Wild Animals – The Hoax

I’ve always had a thing for power trios. Material Issue, Husker Du and more recently, Thrift Store Halo. And, I’d always thought Spaniards to have excellent taste in music. So when I was told that Wild Animals, a power trio from Madrid, were about to release their latest full length, I figured it was a good time to become acquainted with them and their soon to be released album entitled The Hoax.

Their press kit lists Sugar among the band’s major influences. As a big fan of Sugar, I gotta say that I don’t see it. They’re more like Superchunk with a punk-pop edge. The single from the album, “Science Fiction”, immediately caught my attention with its thunderous guitars and a catchy pre-chorus. “Screaming in Harmony” is another melodic gem. Fans of west coast punk-pop will enjoy “Never Forget”. Starting out at breakneck speed “Pocket Full of Fears” changes tempos nicely while incorporating melody and ringing guitars to create the defining song of this, Wild Animals’ third album. This one’s a keeper.

Wild Animals’ The Hoax has an official release date of April 27 and will be available in the US through Lauren Records and Bandcamp.