Wild Nothing – Gemini (2010) [Captured Tracks] // Grade: B

The brainchild of the young and multi-faceted Virginian, by the name of Jack Tatum (also of Jack and the Whale and Facepaint), Wild Nothing’s debut offers the sort of sophisticated multi-layered musicianship that is rarely seen on a debut album by someone at the age of 21. When “Chinatown”  made it’s rounds not too long ago, It’s feel for Icelandic pop, angelic flutes and synths made it clear that Wild Nothing’ full length was something people needed to keep an ear out for in 2010.  Gemini lives in the universe where it’s uplifted sense of melancholy makes you want to spend hours alone with your imagination and wherever it may  may take you. Tatum’s successfully evokes a nostalgic element throughout Gemini that you can distinctively hear as familiar influences weave in and out within his song writing. From the downtempo shoegaze of “Drifter” and “Pessimist” reminiscent of Cocteau Twins through to hints of the Smiths carried by Tatum’s youthfully optimistic voice on “Live In Dreams” and “O, Lilac.”

the lyrics mostly feel like an after thought (something Tatum himself admits), work well nonetheless on Gemini. The stream of conscious approach to fit into the music works well with Wild Nothing’s youthful, carefree innocence; Anything more substantial and the songs would have felt weighed down and Tatum deserves credit for being able to integrate them with organic ease.

Gemini is the sort of light and breezy album perfect for a Summer. It is bound to be the soundtrack to many road trips to the beach or country side. Gemini may take a couple listens for those on the fence to truly appreciate the complexities and dreamy pleasures of Wild Nothing’s music, especially If you’re already not enamored with, or just over saturated by the throngs of new dream pop or shoegaze readily available. But I suspect even the skeptical will discover Gemini a beautiful and even challenging surprise if given the chance.

- purpleplaid