In 2017, Wilder Maker released a two-track 7” with Saddle Creek Records featuring “New Streets” and “Only Child.” Those two tracks saw the group tightening up it’s ‘70s and roots rock inspired sound with the crisp vocals of keyboardist Katie Von Schleicher (who performs under her own name as well) coming more to the forefront. On Wilder Maker’s newest single “Drunk Driver”—which comes ahead of the band’s upcoming full-length Zion, out July 13 via Northern Spy Records—Von Schleicher’s voice leads the way again with excellent results. Over a hypnotic build Von Schleicher delivers lyrics with an emotional weight that sounds effortless: “I loved her with no thought for me, reckless as a drunk driver exhales and turns the key.” The motion of the arrangement toward an ending swirl of keys and guitar pairs well with the single’s video which plays an intimate party in reverse from the sleepy subway ride home through the pizza and shared drinks to the first greetings before sunset. Watch the video below. – Cameron Carr
