Wunderhorse – Midas: The Alternative Album Bringing Rock Feel Back
Unforgiving, raw and just what the genre needs
Wunderhorse’s second album could very well have stacked up as last year’s alternative rock masterpiece. Emerging from the ashes of the punk band Dead Pretties, Wunderhorse is the brainchild of Jacob Slater, whose distinct vision has breathed new life into the alternative rock scene.
Their debut album, “Cub”, introduced the world to their raw, unfiltered sound—a blend of grunge grit, indie charm, and emotional intensity. With their sophomore effort, “Midas,” the band builds on that foundation, honing their craft with a newfound refinement and an astonishing level of emotional depth. This album isn’t just a step forward, it’s a bold leap, proving Wunderhorse is a band that could be the heir’s to the grunge throne.
Track by Track
Midas - 9
‘Midas’ kicks the album off with a fast-paced rhythm guitar line. In a mix of chaotic vocal phrases and energetic and very on genre drum, the song settles into its grove when approaching the first chorus and rolls along adding some accentuating stabs of energy. This song is Jacob Slater fully embracing the rock frontman atmosphere delivering an almost grunge feel which can only be akin to Nirvana’s inspiration.
Rain - 9
Taking it down a touch, Rain, simply asks “Do You Feel the Rain?”. A phrase that at the beginning seems like a catchy hook but by the end feels like an ominous trick question. This uncertainty is reinforced by the janky lead line that accentuates it. I say “janky” but it has been carefully crafted to deliver the overall tone of the song. A fantastic rock song, this song offers a second killer track in a row.
Emily - 9
I can’t help but love this song. Set up as a lighter song than the two that have come before it, this song pulls you in before it gives you the emotion. When the distorted guitar comes in at 1m 20s you can sense the anticipation of the song. Wunderhorse here perfectly balance their dynamics, contrasting held-back chugged chords with moments of eruption with lead lines timed perfectly with Jacob Slater’s vocal delivery
Silver - 10
“I’ve always known an anger”, this track delves into the protagonist’s doubts and reservations about himself. Despite the heavy subject matter, the song contrasts this with a relatively reserved tone, offering a sweeter touch through its emotionally sensitive chorus melody. Toward the end, a beautifully crafted guitar solo elevates the track, enhancing its cadence and driving it into its final section. The closing moments echo the beginning, with Slater repeating, “It’s only a story.” And while it may be just a story, it’s far from a cheerful one. Still, it’s undeniably a great song
Arizona - 10
This song has really grown on me since the album’s release. My initial verdict was an 8 (I know—shocking!), but as time has passed, I’ve become convinced that this is the best track on the album. The opening chord pattern grabs you immediately, setting the tone before the plodding, almost somber drums kick in, perfectly underscoring the song’s sense of loss and confusion. A melancholic anthem with poetic beauty in its lyrics, this track deserves to be held up as a shining example of what alternative rock should aspire to be.
Superman - 8
A showstopper in every sense of the word, apart from ending the album, this track perfectly encapsulates the raw emotional themes that run throughout the entire album. It’s undoubtedly one of the slower songs, which might take a moment to fully settle into, but by the end, Jacob Slater pours his heart out, pushing his vocal cords to their limits and walking the fine line between singing and screaming. The music behind his vocals is deeply atmospheric, with a droning pedal note that enhances the track’s melancholic tone.
July - 9
The first time I listened to this song, I won’t lie, I was confused. The opening rasp of muted chords, struck with raw intensity and layered with feedback, doesn’t give much away about what’s to come. Then the vocal line kicks in, with Jacob delivering a wailing tone that feels almost uncharacteristic of his usual refinement, still, no hints are dropped. But when the chords hit like a truck, it becomes clear that the slower tempo of “Superman” was a deliberate feint, designed to make you think the album was shifting gears. Suddenly, it all clicks into place, revealing a grunge anthem packed with ripping chords, gritty vocals, and thunderous drums. What a track!
Cathedrals - 10
The best way to describe this banger is as refined grunge with a haunting lead guitar part. Since the album’s release, I’ve been utterly obsessed with this track for so many reasons. Chief among them is that melodic line that kicks in just four seconds in, it’s been looping in my head ever since. The vocal tone, reminiscent of Kurt Cobain during In Utero, adds another layer of depth. Together, they create a song that’s charged, emotional, melodic, raw, and everything a great alternative rock track should be. Chef’s kiss!
Girl - 8
For me, this might be the weaker song on the album. That’s not to say it’s bad, far from it, but when compared to the standout tracks, it risks falling a little flat. That said, it ultimately doesn’t. The chorus features a catchy and melodic main vocal line, the dynamics are handled brilliantly, and the track’s intent is conveyed with precision. Still, it doesn’t quite resonate with me in the same way as others. Towards the end, it feels like it meanders a bit, but in a way that’s less purposeful compared to a track like “Cathedrals.” Don’t get me wrong, this is still a fantastic song.
Aeroplane- 10
Eight minutes! Eight minutes for one song. Sure, it’s not the longest track ever, but how often do we hear one that keeps you so completely engrossed as “Aeroplane” does? Delicate and poetic, this song showcases the band at their most stripped-back, featuring acoustic guitars and brushed drums. It evolves gradually, allowing the instruments to take centre stage as the track progresses, before gently fading out toward the end. If you’re looking for a song to immerse yourself in rich textures and fully unwind, this is the one for you.
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