Wand, the garage rock band formed in 2013, has always flirted with the psychedelic fringes of their genre. Their latest album, Vertigo, is a testament to their evolving sound, offering a stripped-down, reflective experience that showcases their raw, unfiltered artistry. The album’s slower, more intimate pace feels like floating in a river of molasses—thick, immersive, and irresistibly slow-moving.

Vertigo is a departure from Wand’s earlier, more frenetic work. The album’s deliberate tempo and thoughtful composition allow each song to unfold with a sense of inevitability, pulling the listener deeper into its introspective depths. Tracks like Hangman and Curtain Call seamlessly blend into one another, creating a continuous, immersive soundscape that feels both authentic and meticulously crafted. This cohesive flow is a testament to Wand’s commitment to an
intentional and unified sound.

While the album retains Wand’s signature psychedelic riffs, there’s a newfound restraint in the instrumentation. The guitar no longer runs wild but is instead carefully reined in to serve the song’s emotional core. Smile exemplifies this approach, with Cory Hanson’s vocals guiding the song’s slower pace, ensuring that every note and lyric resonates with purpose. This controlled, deliberate pacing gives the album a reflective quality, inviting listeners to savor each moment.

Lyrically, Vertigo is a journey into introspection. Hanson’s words force you to look inward, to contemplate and reflect. On JJ, he sings, “Walk into the city where you hunt yourself,” a line that invites multiple interpretations and encourages a deep, personal connection with the music. This lyrical depth is a hallmark of Wand’s evolving maturity, as they navigate complex themes with subtlety and nuance.

Despite the album’s more subdued tone, Wand hasn’t abandoned their psychedelic roots. Lifeboat and Mistletoe are prime examples of their enduring love for the genre’s trippy, otherworldly soundscapes. Mistletoe, in particular, builds to a soaring crescendo, elevating Hanson’s voice as he sings, “I’ve been trying to come down,” capturing the sensation of drifting into an atmospheric orbit. It’s a moment of transcendence that encapsulates the album’s ability
to transport listeners to another realm.

As the album nears its conclusion, High Time ensures that Wand’s need for distorted guitars and piercing noise isn’t forgotten. This track reintroduces the raw, unfiltered energy that defined their earlier work, reminding listeners of the band’s roots while simultaneously showcasing their growth. The song’s powerful, soul-piercing noise is a fitting reminder of the band’s ability to evoke intense emotions through their music.

Overall, Vertigo is a remarkable achievement for Wand. The album is rich with layers to unpack, yet it remains accessible to listeners. The band’s maturation is evident as they embrace a more atmospheric, slow-building approach, allowing Hanson’s vocals to transcend mere singing and become an integral part of the album’s emotional landscape. It’s incredible to think that such a deeply affecting album was crafted in the solitude of their own studio, showcasing the band’s exceptional creativity and skill.

order Vertigo by Wand HERE