Max Vanderwolf, an acclaimed songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, has unveiled “As the Sun,” the inaugural track of his ambitious Vanderwolf Singles Club series. Scheduled for worldwide release on February 19, 2025, this monthly series aims to showcase Vanderwolf’s dynamic creativity, with “As the Sun” setting a compelling precedent.
Crafted in London, “As the Sun” is a testament to minimalist recording techniques, featuring the resonant sounds of two dobros and a haunting vocal arrangement. The track opens with a blues-infused guitar riff, seamlessly blending with a choir of voices that envelop the listener in a rich auditory tapestry. As the song progresses, the second verse transitions to a singular vocal presence, accompanied by a higher-register guitar variation, adding depth and emotional resonance.
Vanderwolf collaborated with vocalist Victy Silva, a distinguished music educator and the wife of producer Chris Wyles, to create the track’s ethereal vocal ensemble. The recording sessions took place in Wyles’ intimate basement studio in Camberwell, South London—a space imbued with personal history, as Silva was born in the very house where the studio resides. This setting contributes to the track’s authentic and soulful ambiance.
Thematically, “As the Sun” delves into existential contemplations, reflecting on the transient nature of life. Vanderwolf describes the piece as an “existentialist’s anthem,” a sentiment that resonates through the song’s introspective lyrics and evocative melodies. The Delta blues inspiration is palpable, yet Vanderwolf infuses the genre with his unique artistic sensibilities, resulting in a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
https://open.spotify.com/track/3KYExtNE1k7UFkDX7ZMlc9?si=00b0cc0e40d34eb0&nd=1&dlsi=f24fea7f853349e9
In addition to the audio experience, the accompanying music video, directed by long-time collaborator Alden Volney, adds a visual narrative that enhances the song’s impact. The video draws inspiration from a significant socio-political event: in November 2024, California voters rejected a ballot measure that sought to amend the state constitution to ban forced prison labor. This measure aimed to address the existing exception that permits involuntary servitude as a punishment for crime—a practice critics equate to state-sponsored slavery. By integrating this theme, the video provides a poignant commentary on systemic injustices, aligning with the song’s existential motifs.
“As the Sun” marks a new chapter in Vanderwolf’s diverse musical journey. His previous projects have traversed various genres and artistic expressions, showcasing his versatility and commitment to exploring different musical landscapes. This latest endeavor continues that tradition, offering listeners an evocative and thought-provoking experience.
The Vanderwolf Singles Club promises a series of monthly releases, each poised to further demonstrate Vanderwolf’s expansive creative vision. “As the Sun” not only sets the stage for this series but also invites listeners to engage deeply with its rich musicality and thematic depth. As the inaugural track, it serves as a compelling harbinger of the evocative musical journey that lies ahead.
Garth Thomas