The Joy Formidable
Wolf’s Law
(Atlantic)

The Joy Formidable returns to the airwaves with their second full-length release, Wolf’s Law. If you are a hardcore, faithful fan of Ritzy and company (much like myself) then you, my friend, are in for a real treat.

This sophomore release is an interesting mix of their trademark grungy guitar riffs lightly peppered with delicate piano and orchestral and acoustic sounds. The opening track, “This Ladder Is Ours” has a beautiful and soft orchestral introduction, quickly giving way to the gritty JF we’re all used to. Another notable track is “Silent Treatment.” In addition to being one of my personal faves, it is a thoughtful and delicate acoustic track, something The Big Roar lacked. It’s these nuances that prove Joy Formidable has not shown us all of their cards just yet.

But don’t get me wrong, by no means has everyone’s favorite Welsh trio gone soft on us. In fact, just the opposite; the melodies on Wolf’s Law are much deeper and more complex. It offers a kind of overwhelming sound that can really only be appreciated when blasted at full volume. And although there is a lot more softness than previously heard, there is an equal amount of rock. “Maw Maw Song” features a lot of synthesized sounds and a drum beat that is reminiscent of a Black Sabbath song.

“Forrest Serenade” may be the quintessential song to sum up how the band has progressed. It has a rhythm that is unmistakably their own, but it has a much wider range than previously seen. This record proves that this lovable and quirky trio aren’t going anywhere. And even though you can hardly ever tell what that little Welsh girl is saying, you can’t help but sing along.