Review of sophomore Wild Domestic album ‘Singular’

On Jan. 20, Wild Domestic will release the new album Singular. Here, the alternative singer-songwriter turns in a solid effort and shows promise.

On Jan. 20, Wild Domestic will release their sophomore album Singular. The man behind this project is Paraguay-born musician Matt Carlson, an alternative singer-songwriter raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. There he learned to play a variety of instruments – from keys to bass. In 2015, Carlson released his debut self-titled record as Wild Domestic. This follow-up album is a strong effort and shows great promise for the artist.

Singular opens with “Left, Right.” This short track contains and interesting concept, but is lacking in final impact. It stops shy of being highly emotional or gritty. The result is a slight Disney musical feel about it. Though “Left, Right.” is not a very strong opening, Wild Domestic gets better from here.

“New Year, New Me” comes up second on this record. From the start, this tune is marked by accessible but engaging guitar work. Carlson’s vocals range from raw and strong to drained – both of which work here. Though not revolutionary, this alternative rock track is enjoyable and would fly on a variety of different playlists.

Wild Domestic hits their stride

Next up on Singular is the fast and ever so slightly punk-pop-tinged “Author.” Here, Carlson’s voice is wrung-out with piercing edges. Meanwhile, high-energy percussion and guitars pull listeners along. “Author” is a radio-ready highlight on this record.

There is something The Killers circa “Mr Brightside,” about the next song on this album. Entitled “Headlights,” there is an emo bend to the lyrics. Tumbling rhythms, a solid hook and sing-along-able chorus make it impossible not to listen.

Wild Domestic shines a light on the gentler side in the next three tracks. “Overjoyed” and “Firewall” fall a little short in presentation. However, “Firewall” in particular demonstrates Carlson’s ability to infuse his voice with palpable emotion. Audiences wonder if these two tracks might be more effective live. That being said, “Senses” overcomes any loss in translation – delivering a soft but strong and effective track.

With Singular, Wild Domestic turned in a strong effort. Though there were peaks and valleys in presentation, the high notes were radio-ready and attention grabbing. Listeners feel this artist has a lot of promise – and that this is not the last we will hear of Matt Carlson.