Mt.Wolf: Ones to Watch in 2013
Monday 8th April 2013 | Hannah
Folk music has a new modern look. This four-piece from South London, who collectively are known as Mt.Wolf have already got tongues waggling with the release of their latest EP, 'Hypolight', making them a hotly tipped artist to watch in 2013.
Forming the band was actually an ongoing process as a widespread search was conducted in order to find people who actually fit in with the style of the band rather than just filling in the gaps. Guitarists Sebastian ‘Bassi’ Fox and Steve McMinn met at music college in London and quickly began writing together, however it quickly became clear that they needed a vocalist. Enter McMinn’s good friend, Kate Sproule, who had just finished a history degree at Cambridge, but wanted to peruse a career in music. After a year of songwriting together, McMinn’s housemate and drummer, Alex Mitchell became the final member to the band.
They then set about actually making music together. Fox told Clash Magazine that their sound is ‘electronic sounding but not harsh’. The dreamy lyrics is beautifully partnered by a heavy bassline but it doesn’t sound awkward or weird. Instead the band have been able to create such a unique sound can is often described as ‘dreamfolk’.
The band have openly spoken about their influences which include Bon Iver and The XX. Their latest EP 'Hypolight' does indeed contain similar haunting vocals like Bon Iver and heavy yet soft basslines of The XX. However this is no plain imitation. Whilst their sound may be similar they have put their own spin on things. Yet the band told Line of Best Fit that their biggest influence in fact, comes from their experience of living along the English coast as well as living within the busy city of London. The experience of moving to a city where you are easily lost in a crowd from a quiet hometown is definitely reflected in their sound.
The band often emphasise the fact that they want to construct a piece of music that flows effortlessly and ultimately create something which is beautiful. Their latest EP 'Hypolight' as well as their previous one, Life Size Ghosts, are examples of the band’s obvious pride in their work. 'Hypolight' is a beautifully crafted song, which is a pleasure to listen to. Mt.Wolf have not been afraid to create their own sound and their commitment to making good music is apparent in their latest single.
'Hypolight' is able to download now.
By Hannah Crouch (@carryoncrouch)