London’s Wolf Alice returns from their hiatus with “Bloom Baby Bloom,” signifying a shift in sound, style, and attitude as they approach a new chapter leading up to their fourth album, ‘The Clearing.’
New music from Wolf Alice has been anticipated for four years. As one of the prominent bands from north London, known for their expertly crafted alternative rock and dynamic live performances, they make a much-anticipated return with “Bloom Baby Bloom,” the lead single from their forthcoming album, The Clearing, scheduled for release on August 29th via RCA Records. This bold and conceptually rich pop track marks the beginning of a new phase for Wolf Alice, as they seek to evolve their sound and build on their already remarkable discography.
“Bloom Baby Bloom” serves as a motivational anthem from singer Ellie Rowsell to herself and the band, urging them to embrace their inner creativity and talent as they transition into their next stage. Their veiled abilities are emerging, and Wolf Alice is stepping into the spotlight with a confidence that has always been part of their identity, now infused with a theatrical flair. The song starts with a highly addictive piano line and swiftly transitions through various sections that support Rowsell's attention-grabbing vocals. It exudes a confident, lively energy that embodies the group’s bold new attitude, demanding listeners' attention.
Yet I’ll bloom, baby, bloom
Watch me, yeah, you’ll see just what I’m worth
Yes, I’m blue, baby, blue
Every flower needs to coexist with the dirt
It’s important to note that the previous incarnation of Wolf Alice was already remarkable, having won the Mercury Prize, landed in the Top 5 album charts, and toured globally. Their last album, 2021's Blue Weekend, was a notable achievement, featuring a strong mix of heavy tracks and Rowsell’s emotionally honest lyrics. Therefore, “Bloom Baby Bloom” should not be viewed as a deviation from their past but rather as a natural evolution of what they have already established.
The previous album also explored themes of growth. Blue Weekend navigated various challenges faced in your 20s, touching on relatable feelings of breakups, drifting friendships, and the excesses associated with touring. “Bloom Baby Bloom” approaches similar themes but from a fresh perspective, focusing on personal growth, self-assurance, and the resilience to counter unwarranted criticism. It emphasizes learning from life’s challenges rather than succumbing to despair.
Rowsell expressed her desire to focus on the performance aspect of rock music from a female viewpoint with this song. “I wanted a rock song that emphasized the performance side and to sing in a style reminiscent of Axl Rose, but about the experience of being a woman,” she states. In the past, she felt the need to “hide behind the guitar,” wanting to steer clear of the typical female singer stereotype. She acknowledges this tendency, explaining, “I’ve used the guitar as a shield before, but I’m excited to focus on my voice as a powerful rock instrument, feeling liberated to put the guitar down and reach a stage where I no longer feel the need to prove my musicianship.”
Rowsell’s vocal abilities allow her to rise above the instrumental backdrop, establishing her presence as a genuine rock frontwoman in “Bloom Baby Bloom.” She will likely still be playing guitar during live performances this summer while also embracing the opportunity to fully leverage her talent and connect with audiences through just her voice.
This song showcases Rowsell’s strengths beautifully, transitioning from the high-energy verses to the soaring choruses, with each section designed to amplify her vocal delivery. This is Wolf Alice at their finest, and it is sure to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners with its powerful affirmation. The track encourages listeners to dispel negativity and embrace their authentic selves.
Watch me as I try to play it tough
My despair hidden behind a flawed façade
Look at me trying to play it strong
I’m so exhausted from pretending to be tough
Lines like “Do I have to make you sit on your hands? F*ing baby, baby man” and “Every flower needs to grow up by the weeds” could be seen as brash, but that interpretation misses the mark. Rowsell is addressing her critics directly, asserting that she’s done with concealing her true self and that they will soon witness her full power. With the song's high-quality production and delivery, it’s difficult to refute her message.
Wolf Alice was bound to return with something significant after a lengthy break, and “Bloom Baby Bloom” surpasses expectations—marking a fierce and impressive comeback from one of rock’s foremost bands.
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:: Stream/purchase Bloom Baby Bloom here ::
:: Pre-order The Clearing here ::
:: Connect with Wolf Alice here ::
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Stream: “Bloom Baby Bloom” – Wolf Alice
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London's Wolf Alice return from their hiatus with "Bloom Baby Bloom," showcasing a transformation in sound, style, and attitude that signifies a new chapter for the band as they prepare for the release of their fourth album, 'The Clearing.'