London-based singer-songwriter WILDES, the recording project of Anglo-Irish musician and producer Ella Walker, is set to captivate audiences once again with her upcoming EP titled Subsidence, scheduled for release on Mar. 15th.
The announcement comes alongside the unveiling of the EP’s lead single, “heartbreak is silent,” a stirring and pulsating track that delves into the aftermath of a painful breakup.
Having garnered critical acclaim for her debut album, Other Words Fail Me, released in January of the current year, WILDES is poised to take listeners on a journey through the depths of heartache with her latest offering. Subsidence sees Walker returning to her roots as she takes on the roles of both producer and recording artist, crafting the entire EP from her flat in Dalston. Renowned collaborator Matt Wiggins, known for his work with Adele and Florence and the Machine, lends his expertise by handling the EP’s mixing.
“The EP centers around the abrupt end of a loving relationship that left me quite devastated and shocked,” WILDES explains, offering a glimpse into the emotional landscape that inspired the project. The lead single, “heartbreak is silent,” is a testament to her ability to convey the fractured emotions that follow the dissolution of a deep connection.
Known for citing PJ Harvey and Patti Smith as influences, WILDES showcases a sonic evolution with “heartbreak is silent.” The track features a heartbeat kick drum running throughout, building to a crescendo of muted electronics. WILDES skillfully navigates the tension and release, providing an eloquent portrayal of her personal experience of romantic trauma.
WILDES describes the new single in her own words: “‘heartbreak is silent’ captures a battle between myself and my emotions after the end of my last relationship. This particular heartbreak was quietly subtle from the outside but raging and all-encompassing within.”
WILDES’ 2023 debut album, Other Words Fail Me, served as a powerful testament to her resilience and survival, documenting her journey of breaking free from a controlling and abusive relationship. The album’s success garnered attention from Danger Mouse, who became her publisher, leading to over 20 syncs on US TV shows and widespread recognition in the press.
With over 60 million cumulative streams to date and firm support from BBC Radio 1, 2, and 6 Music and international stations, WILDES continues to make waves in the music scene. The upcoming EP, Subsidence, promises to be another milestone in her musical journey.
WILDES will celebrate the release of Subsidence with three intimate headline shows in Bristol, Leeds, and London next March, offering fans a chance to experience her emotionally charged music live.
The Subsidence EP will be released on Mar. 15th via Apollo, with the lead single “heartbreak is silent” available now.