Band: VVonder
EP: Now and Again
Release Date: November 10, 2022
Genre: Indie-Rock
Winnipeg, MB-based rock band VVonder have unveiled their debut album, Now and Again.
Fronted by lead vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist Micah Braun (Jicah, the Nods) alongside Nate Jacobucci (Campfire Sigh, Butterfist Funhouse) on keys and vocals, Joey Penner (Trampoline, Jicah, The Waking Eyes) on bass and vocals and Steve Martens (Trampoline) on drums, VVonder’s lineup is as eccentric and whimsical as their upcoming debut record.
On the album, listeners are treated to eleven tracks, including the previous singles, “Mistake,” “Philosophy,” and “Bye Bye Baby.”
Speaking of “Bye Bye Baby,” it has amassed over 35K streams on Spotify and opens the album wonderfully. I could immediately understand why it has been so popular with listeners. The bright, rolling beat pulls you in, and the lyrics fascinate you until the end. “I bought you flowers, And all you did was shrug, I thought we were in love,” and “I did your laundry, Even ironed your corduroys, I figured kindness would kill this inner voice,” brings a little comedic flare into a track about a breakup. For me, the chorus, “Bye Bye Baby, Don’t say maybe, This time it’s for good, I just gotta get out of my head,” caught my attention, as it’s sung in a cheery tune and has vibes of 1960s rock, that you’ll find it hard not to sing along to.
“Hurts So Much” shows another side of the band, slowing everything down and showcasing the various vocal stylings throughout the track. I am still picking up hints of 60s rock on this track, and I absolutely love it. The lyrics, “I read it on the news, even Batman sings the blues, I’m a super human and baby so are you. Still it hurts to breathe and it hurts to touch, why does everything hurt so much.” nestled into my brain. This track could be called a triple threat, with the music, vocals, and lyrics all standing front and center. Plus, the lyrics mention Batman…I mean, come on, you gotta love that.
If you’re looking for an album that strays away from the modern rock sound while still captivating the listener, this one is for you!