Patrick Wolf - Brumalia (EP)
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Who releases a fully recognised EP in conjunction with the fourth single from their latest record? Patrick Wolf does of course. Brumalia was released globally prior to Christmas and Wolf explores themes of isolation and winter bleakness that are associated with the season in the northern hemisphere. Romanticism and pop balladry abounds as Wolf’s melodrama reaches new heights and his confessional style lyrics are so laid bare that they are almost cringe worthy with the troubadour’s need to over share his emotional turmoil ever present at the forefront for the listener.
This heady emotional presence is what makes Wolf’s music stand out from the rest as pop stars the world over perfect their public image and wipe away all trace of a typical human personality, Patrick Wolf bares his soul in all of it’s insecure, hormonal, neurotic glory in a whirl of fantastical melodies.
While Brumalia is an accompaniment to Lupercalia it does hold its own as a stand alone release. The name of the record hints at the subject matter with the melancholia of winter intertwined with the celebrating and feasting involved during the Christmas holiday season. Single “Together” is a sweeping affair full of loving sentiments that are made poignant by their simplicity. Lyrics such as ‘forgive my jealousy, that’s not the man I long to be, by your side my whole life, true love knows no sacrifice’ are bound to make ladies swoon the world over. The moody atmospherics of “Bitten” with its resplendent mix of strings and electronics are perfectly complimented by Wolf’s impassioned vocal delivery as he cries ‘now you must love yourself, like you’ve never known hurt before’.
This makes a stark contrast to the upbeat tones of “This Time Of Year”, a blatant holiday ballad where the lyrics belie the carefree nature of the arrangements. Its oxymorons such as these that makes Wolf’s music so beguiling as he puts all of his idiosyncrasies on display to great effect. The record ends on “Trust”, a beautifully constructed tune brimming with whimsy and longing that will stay with you long after the music ends.
Regardless of whether you’re a long time fan of Patrick Wolf or new to his sound, Brumalia is record that will leave you feeling oddly satisfied. The listening experience is akin to running into an old friend who offers a rare moment of solace in an otherwise dreary existence.
