The first few seconds barely sound out, and I think to myself, has someone wrapped the wolf in wolf's clothing for me? What comes out of the speakers sounds like Sparky from Demented Are Go. Is WOLFWOLF a side project of the crazy Brit?
Far from it.
WOLFWOLF is a band from Switzerland that will release their fourth album, “Totentanz,” on April 5, 2024.
I have now listened to the album at least half a dozen times, and the sound and depth of the album continue to unfold.
The band fittingly deals with death on this album, but also with life in all its facets.
As multifaceted as life is, so is “Totentanz.”
Just like life, “Totentanz” can also be off-putting at times and then captivating shortly after.
The thirteen songs, aptly corresponding to the well-known number of fate and the associated (superstitious) belief, are difficult to bring together under one umbrella. There are simply too many facets on this album. Can one describe life in all its glory and all its confusion?
There is a very unique sound here influenced by Psychobilly, as well as by Blues (I particularly hear a certain similarity to P. Paul Fenech in “Holy Water,” both in terms of voice and guitar playing), by Dark or Cold Wave, by Gothic-tinged sounds, Rock’n’Roll influences can also be heard, and much, much more. With each listen, more and more is revealed.
WOLFWOLF is actually just two people, namely Mr. Wolf on drums and vocals and Mr. Wolf on guitar. Who is who and what is what, and how do they achieve such a sound? Questions I ask myself...and yet I don’t care, because they achieve this sound.
It is a special sound structure that may not appeal to everyone, somewhere between darkness, melancholy, courage, and strength.
“Totentanz” is one of those albums that doesn’t let you go. It has a certain magic.
I’m sure that if I let this album sit for a few years and then listen to it again, the same fascination will unfold.
“Totentanz” is something very special. One could say it’s for connoisseurs.
WOLFWOLF is on tour throughout the year from time to time.
For those who like it dark and subcultural, this special band and this special release are highly recommended.
