Non-traditional electronic music, characterized by not heavily featuring guitars, is what The Wants' Madison Velding-VanDam is revamping. He aims to incorporate the "rock" genre, expanding the sonic spectrum beyond its original boundaries.
In the world of music, the pandemic brought about unprecedented challenges. Live performances were halted, income streams were cut, and many artists were left in a state of uncertainty. One such band, The Wants, found themselves wrapping up a European tour in France when the international spread of Covid-19 cast a shadow over their future[1].
Despite the lost opportunities, the pandemic provided The Wants with an unexpected gift - time. This period allowed the band to regroup and refine a new batch of songs for their sophomore album, Bastard, which is out now via STTT[2].
The frontman of the band, Madison Velding-VanDam, explored his own troubles in the lyrics of Bastard, including the death of his father just before lockdowns began in 2020. Velding-VanDam's approach to songwriting for Bastard was not as a guitarist but as a songwriter. His instinct isn't to shred with a guitar, but to use it "like it's my piano. It's a writing tool."[3]
Velding-VanDam's gear setup includes a Fender Tone Master amp, Reverend guitars, an MXR Dyna Comp compressor, and TC Electronic Echobrain analog delay. The addition of NightNight mastermind Yasmeen Night brought expertise in analog synths and a melodic sensibility steeped in classical training to the band's sound[3]. Synth or bass parts could become guitar parts and vice versa in the creation of the songs for Bastard.
Bastard is an evolution of the band's sound, featuring a layered and lush sonic landscape compared to their sparse debut, Container. The band, The Wants, is interested in experimental, electronic music that often does not allow guitars[3]. As a result, Bastard features a sound that is not primarily guitar-driven.
The American Dream suggests that hard work and dedication lead to success, but luck can also play a significant role. Subscribing to the website could result in savings[4]. The journey of The Wants and their album Bastard is a testament to this, as they navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic and emerged with a powerful and thought-provoking piece of work.
[1] - https://www.npr.org/2020/03/12/815122966/the-coronavirus-pandemic-is-forcing-music-venues-to-close-indefinitely [2] - https://www.sttt.co/releases/the-wants-bastard [3] - https://www.guitarworld.com/news/the-wants-frontman-madison-velding-vandam-on-writing-for-bastard-and-his-gear-setup [4] - https://www.thewants.com/subscribe
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