Search - Patrick Wolf :: Lycanthropy

Gypsy Rock in the Enchanted Jazz Lounge

Little Old Me | 09/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Patrick Wolf kind of looks like a run-away gypsy on the album cover. And I think that fits him perfectly. Wolf's debut album, Lycanthropy, certainly manifests such a fantastic image ...



Combining acoustic instruments with hints of electronica and his darringly deep voice, Patrick sings about the mental safe havens that we create for else and the constant transformations a person goes through. Stuck somewhere between child and adult, boy and wolf, tranquility and disruption, Patrick's ballads are awe-inspiring and almost spiritual. He calls out for the protection and spritual guidance of the wolves in "Wolf Song", escapes violent raids on his home in "To the Lighthouse", confronts a child molester in "The Childcatcher" and even equalizes the two genders in "Lycanthropy". Patrick is not your typical annoyingly love-sick singer/songwriter, but a masterful bard who documents his own personal journeys and transformations in the guise of werewolves and other childhood fantasies.



The music is again, nontraditional - sounds like a bunch of gyspies congregated with earthy fiddles, accordians and ukeles while allowing Bjork to mix it all up with some amazing back beats and vibes. The song "Bloodbeat" is a perfect example of the multiplicity of the album - while one can hear the dark tones of the lyrics and appreciate the acoustics, the mixing make it almost perfect for a hippie danceclub. If you are a fan of folk music, you'll appreciate the variety of instruments and the complexity of Patrick's lyrics.



I guess this is another gold star for the U.K.. If you're a fan of such underestimated British Bands like The Auteurs and Black Box Recorder, then you'll love this album."

Absolutely stunning musical creation from Wolf!

A. Billington | 06/22/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I had read a short review on albums, and one mentioned was this one. It had received 5 stars and intrigued me to look into it due to my interest in odd electronica styles of music. The moment I got it and began listening to it, I knew immediately that it deserved all 5 of those stars that it had originally received. Now I have the chance to pass on the wonderful glory of 5 stars in a review.I agree with both of the previous reviewers in all their comments. It is truly a shame that more people don't know about Wolf, and now I will make a strong effort to educate people on his fascinating style. The musical creations that Wolf has formed by using many types of various unusual instruments is both soothing and relaxing yet also full of energy and has the ability to fulfill. His voice in all of the tracks fits perfectly and is strong yet emphatic. I can't accentuate enough how wonderful of a CD this is. All that I can say is to go out and pick up a copy now and listen to it yourself and you'll be able to understand why the rest of us agree that he is worth all 5 stars."

Heartfelt music from an incredibly talented musician

Kunitz | San Francisco, CA | 03/18/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Patrick Wolf is, in my opinion, one of the most talented, imaginative, and original artists in today's world. He produced this album and "Wind in the Wires" almost completely on his own, and he plays all the multiple instruments featured--his collection includes piano, violin, accordian, viola, recorder, ukulele, guitar, organ, clavichord, and many other instruments, including electronic ones such as the theremin. As well, his songwriting is astounding; the lyrics are poetic and moving, with depth that is lacking in the music so many other contemporary artists make.



I recommend that everyone buy this album and listen to it carefully, repeatedly, to fully appreciate all the passion and intensity evident in Patrick Wolf's music. Then, I urge everyone to buy "Wind in the Wires", Patrick's stunning second album. His music will leave a definite impression, I can guarantee."