Wrongbird releases new EP 'Who Is Wrongbird?'

By David Tran
​
Who is Wrongbird? A question that is dwelling on everyone’s mind and is the title of the new release by talented Austin band, Wrongbird. Spearheaded by the Chicago-born songwriter and pianist, Eric Baker, whose voice takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions and melodies throughout the tracks, the album, described by the band as a “love letter to the Austin music scene” and an amalgam of their transformation from a Chicago native to a collective Austin band.

The album’s first song, "Leap Year," set the tone with upbeat piano keys and the sound of the drums. It lifts the vibe of the song all the way up then let Eric’s silvery voice takes it away. The chorus is incredibly catchy and provides the listeners with joy and funk right off the bat. 

Moving to "Nectar of Babylon," Wrongbird once again packs the song with energy, love, and spirit from the start to finish. Even the little riffs that consist of piano and drums are just so memorable and joyful. The song sounds like a love song but is also reflecting on strength within oneself to become independent. The tempo and melody remind me of The Weeks, which combined indie rock, pop, and elements of swing music. 

"Irish Jeremiah" brings it down to a slower tone, setting listeners in a rainy day mood with satisfying undertones. The song is really amplified with Eric’s strong voice, echoing throughout the track. “I could listen to an Irish Jeremiah for a thousand year, my friend, that’s music to my ear.” Well Wrongbird, we could listen to this forever also. 

Overall, Who is Wrongbird? is stuffed with happy melodies, bluesy tones for a more laid back car ride, or a dance party. The band's latest EP is reminiscent to Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats with its powerful main vocals as well as lighthearted, uplifting listeners with the keys and drums. One thing for sure, Wrongbird has distanced themselves from Chicago and is ready to take on Austin with full force as a band with a bright future ahead of them.