THE WILDHEARTS

"Satanic Rites of The Wildhearts" (Snakefarm; 2025)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

I'm not sure how to categorize The Wildhearts. I mean, I dislike labels and comparisons anyway, but they can be a good way to get an idea of what a band sounds like. For example, if you're a big fan of classic rock, you might like this or that band; if you're a fan of Led Zeppelin, you might like this or that band. But "Satanic Rites of The Wildhearts" is so varied, I don't know where to begin.

But let's give it a try.

Classic rock, check. "Satanic Rites" has big guitars, hummable melodies, some Cheap Trick energy. Alternative rock, check. The band experiments a little here and there, specifically on tracks like "I'll Be Your Monster" with its tribal rhythms and saxophones (yes, saxophones). Blue Moon Over Brinkburn." Hard rock, check. Tracks like the ironically-entitled "Maintain Radio Silence" and "Failure is the Mother of Success" are heavier, guitar-driven tracks. Ballads, check. While it may not technically quality as a "ballad," "Hurt People Hurt People" is a introspective and heartfelt number that stuns in its depth.

Bottom line: "Satanic Rites of The Wildhearts" has a little bit of everything and, thankfully, they do everything very well.

For more information, check out https://www.thewildhearts.com/.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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