From back to front, “Mirage” is one of the most diverse, eclectic, and well pieced together records that traverses an entire collection of rock styles and elements. Villanelle & The Northern Wonder are rough around the edges but delectably smooth within. From the first splutter of chords on “December Bloom”, that rawness in their arrangement and visceral nature to their expression is made resplendently clear. “Mirage” by Villanelle & The Northern Wonder is a stunning EP that blends the best of 70s fuzz rock and dark Americana. The duelling guitars and silky bass lines transport you to a smoky, dimly lit bar, while the haunting vocals and evocative lyrics carry you away to a cinematic landscape that only exists in your mind. This is an EP that demands to be listened to from start to finish, and one that will leave you wanting more.
There’s something so grounded about this album, a feeling that leaves you almost entirely knowing and in belief that this is built into realness, into experiences that are undoubtedly true and without question. The performance on “Gold Standard” for instance, a smooth, slow rolling almost Alex Turner esque vocal performance is just irresistibly cool from back to front. No two songs sound the same, but the vibes are definitely consistent. There’s an element of suaveness, a slickness, a swagger that Villanelle & The Northern Wonder never fail to deliver on any of the tracks. You might think the sound is somehow old school or dated, but just a cursory listen will make you realise just how addictive and refreshing they’ve made it come to life like.
“Mirage” is an album that’s both ahead and before its time. It’s deceptively cool and exceptionally fun. This is an outfit that would be manifold better live, and I hope to get the chance to catch them perform in person sometime.