If there’s one thing we have learned about Wotts, it is that they are always on the move. Incredibly productive, the Canadian duo takes a keen interest in constantly evolving their sound, oscillating from lush, hazy tones to punchier and fiercer territories. If ‘Not Us’ was a surprisingly uplifting foray into indie-pop lands, latest effort ‘Better Days’ is somewhat different, yet also quite similar. Letting synthetisers take a back seat, the track still relies on a mellow, evocative piano and a series of buoyant textures, all sprinkled with Tame Impala-esque psychedelic goodness.
What more could you wish for? Jayem’s stunningly hazy and vibrant vocals are a perfect match for such a nostalgic, feverish record, with bassist/guitarist Ricky 100 enjoying developing the most dreamy tones he can think of. Yet, even among such sumptuous arrangements, the keen listener will be able to notice a touch of sadness, a hidden core of melancholia. That’s partly in the lyrics, with Wotts reflecting on a particularly painful and challenging period in their lives.
As Jayem explains: “The record is definitely sad in places, but we never wanted it to feel too heavy. We hide some songs under a happy face, not to fool people, I think that just speaks to sometimes having to pretend you’re happy for the sake of others”. ‘Better Days’ anticipates Wotts’ upcoming EP, ‘FLANK!’. If the single is anything to go by, we are in for another glorious record from the Ottawa-based pair.
Recommended! Discover ‘Better Days’ on Spotify: