Wolf Alice

Andrew Ross, contributor and Host of Spin This!

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Wolf Alice’s fourth album, The Clearing, leans into a warm, 1970s-inspired sound, evoking Fleetwood Mac and T. Rex with a modern twist. Produced by Greg Kurstin, the record blends soft rock’s melodic glow with the band’s emotional depth. Lead single “Bloom Baby Bloom” struts with bluesy riffs, while “The Sofa” delivers poignant introspection. “White Horses,” led by drummer Joel Amey, builds to a euphoric peak, showcasing their versatility.

 

The 70s vibe shone at Glastonbury 2025, where Wolf Alice’s Other Stage set (June 29) earned five stars from NME. “Bloom Baby Bloom” and a cover of “Dreams” electrified the crowd, with Ellie Rowsell’s commanding vocals and the band’s tight chemistry proving they’re ready to headline. However, tracks like “Safe in the World” feel overly mellow, and some fans miss the band’s grungier edge, with Kurstin’s polished production occasionally smoothing out their quirks.

 

The Clearing is Wolf Alice’s most cohesive work yet, balancing nostalgia with sharp lyricism about womanhood and self-acceptance. While not every track hits, standouts like “The Sofa” “White Horses” and "Thorns" rival their best. It’s a confident evolution, that for some diehards, may need a few extra spins.