WORDS AND IMAGES DESH KAPUR
I had the pleasure of attending my second gig on a lively Saturday night, and it was none other than Wunderhorse, a band formed by the ex-Dead Pretties frontman, Jacob Slater, in Cornwall, or at least I think it was Cornwall. Their journey began with Slater as a solo act during the lockdown, but soon he was joined by drummer Jamie Staples, guitarist Harry Fowler, and bassist Pete Woodin to create the formidable lineup we see today. Not to forget, guitarist Oscar Browne made his mark with the band, though he has since departed.
As they walked onto the stage bathed in dim, simple red lighting, they looked like they had just stepped out of a thrift shop in Seattle, exuding an unmistakable grunge charm
Then stage came alive with the sound of crafted and intriguing grunge, indie, and rock. The intensity of their performance is captivating, and it drew parallels to the likes of Radiohead‘ circa “The Bends.” This comparison speaks volumes about the band’s talent and potential.
Wunderhorse is undoubtedly a band on the rise, and their performance was a testament to that. Their music oscillated between dark, twisty, grungy, guitar-based indie rock anthems and haunting, intense ballads.
The audience was predominantly young, which perfectly complemented the band’s edgy vibe. Live, Wunderhorse’s sound was more robust than on record and, at times, even raw, with hints of Slater’s punk roots subtly seeping through. With reverb-loaded guitars that enveloped the audience in a wall of sound.
Slater’s vocals were a rollercoaster, ranging from angry, almost screaming, to fragile and introspective, a true journey through his emotions. They held nothing back, throwing the whole kitchen sink at the audience, baring their musical souls for all to see.
Wunderhorse is undeniably a brilliant British guitar band, skillfully merging grunge-soaked tunes with catchy hooks.
It’s crystal clear that Wunderhorse is destined for bigger things, bigger stages, and larger venues. If you haven’t had the chance to see them live, I strongly recommend you do so at the earliest opportunity.
Standout song “Butterflies”
SET LIST
1/ LEADER OF THE PACK
2/ GIRL BEHIND THE GLASS
3/ BUTTERFLIES
4/ MIDAS
5/ DO YOU FEEL THE RAIN
6/ CATHEDRALS
7/ 17
8/ MORPHINE
9/ TEAL
10/ ARIZONA
11/ JULY
12/ SUPERMAN
ENCORE
13/ PURPLE
14/ POPPY
FOLLOW WUNDERHORSE
My life is a soundtrack, i track my life through music, photography is my passion, my escape, my expression. Without both i have pieces missing, thankfully i’m blessed and get to combine both.
Born in Manchester, lived in Australia for 22 years where i was heavily involved in the Australian Music Industry, firstly in bands (Singer) and then managing bands (all original), I moved back to the UK, Wales specifically 10 years ago
