wallows’ quarantine ep will have you dancing through heartache
By Jillian Cote
With COVID-19 changing the way the world works as we know it, many facets of music and the arts have come to a halt. However, for alt-rock band Wallows, quarantine has been a period of creativity and progression as seen in their new EP Remote. The creation of this project shows a theme of overcoming challenges and finding new ways out, both quite literally in its production and within the lyrical storyline. This 6-track collection, considered an in-between project for their debut album Nothing Happens and their future releases, serves as a reaffirmation of their indie-rock sound while also showing an experimental side with techno-instrumentals and pop production.
Alluding to unprecedented times while also introducing feelings of new love, Remote’s first track, “Virtual Aerobics,” starts the EP off strong. Using a signature strong bass drum and striking piano notes, the instrumentals create a light-hearted and playful feeling. The lyricism of “Virtual Aerobics” coexists with this feeling, using “Doing some virtual aerobics” as a play on words to speak on both the virtual state of the world in response to COVID-19 as well as the hoops singer Dylan Minnette jumps through when getting to know someone romantically through text. This dorkishly romantic sentiment continues in the lyrics “Wanna dress in what makes you like me / I'll probably overwear these Nikes.”
The comedown from the romantic overtones of the first three tracks in the EP can be seen in the song “Coastline,” an analysis of long-distance relationships and the heartache that comes with it. The implementation of synths in the chorus and bridge are reminiscent of those of ‘80s love and heartbreak ballads, creating a pattern of ‘80s inspiration originating with their popular song “Are You Bored Yet?” The chorus repeats the message “I don't wanna think about it / When we're on different coastlines,” expressing the hardships of separation in love. In this time particularly, this can apply to so much more than romantic love, allowing many listeners to connect with the central themes Minnette expresses.
Despite this EP being created in quarantine with challenges of separation, Wallows manages to produce a dynamic style nonetheless by juxtaposing their signature gritty indie style with a clean pop production. The consistent upbeat, catchy instrumentals paired with the clever lyrics that depict love in the age of so many unknowns allows for dancing to any emotion, and a high level of connection from the band to their audience. Ultimately, Remote exceeds its purpose as a bridge from one project to another by standing out on its own with its experimental dynamics.