When it comes to dream pop, few albums capture the genre’s ethereal beauty like Wild Nothing's Indigo. Released in August 2018 under Captured Tracks, the album marks a significant moment for creator Jack Tatum. It was primarily produced in Studio Plaza in Los Angeles, bringing his nostalgic and synth-heavy vision to life. Indigo is an exploration of emotions, relationships, and the passage of time, wrapped in lush sounds that feel both modern and reminiscent of the '80s. It's this clever blend that draws listeners in, especially those who love to escape into a world filled with shimmering melodies and introspective lyrics.
Jack Tatum, the mastermind behind Wild Nothing, has always had a knack for drawing inspiration from past musical landscapes while embedding his unique fingerprint. Indigo is no different in this regard. It channels Tatum’s passion for a dreamy atmosphere and thoughtful songwriting, making the album feel like a conversation between old school and contemporary. It's also an album that plays with the idea of direction and growth, reflecting Tatum's ongoing journey as an artist.
The track “Letting Go” kicks off Indigo with a glimmering start, reminiscent of New Wave hits. The track sets the tone for the rest of the album with its buoyant yet contemplative mood, painting a story of transition and acceptance. Meanwhile, “Partners in Motion” continues the vibe with a catchy rhythm that mirrors the complexities of partnership and uncertainty. This ability to capture nuanced human emotions over shiny, upbeat tracks is characteristic of how Wild Nothing creates its unique sound palette.
Indigo’s charm lies in its capacity to convey genuine emotion without being overly melancholic. Tracks like “Shallow Water” and “Wheel of Misfortune” wrap listeners in warmth, inviting a personal reflection on intimacy and personal expectations. Tatum’s lyrics often intersect with moments in life that many of us recognize instantly: love’s fragility, aspirations unmet, and the inevitable ride through time.
But beneath the shimmering production, there's an authenticity that resonates with those who seek deeper narratives in music. It’s about more than just listening; it’s about feeling. And perhaps, that’s where Indigo’s power truly lies—its ability to evoke feelings that are universal yet personal, making each listener's experience distinct.
What's compelling about Indigo is its political subtlety, even if it doesn't appear overtly so at first glance. In a time when the world feels chaotic and divided, there's something undeniably comforting about an album that takes you on a gentle journey through the introspective side of human existence. It's like finding solace in art when everything else seems to be falling apart. Some might argue that music like Indigo, with its escape into serenity, sidelines the need for political engagement in art. They're not entirely wrong; there's an argument to be made for art that confronts issues head-on. However, Tatum provides a refuge that’s necessary at times, offering listeners a moment of peace before stepping back into the storm of the world.
Critics have often debated whether art should be used as a platform for political discourse or a retreat from it. In messages sent subtly, sometimes an album doesn’t need to shout to be heard—instead, it whispers comforting truths, a form of gentle rebellion. Tatum's choice to craft Indigo with timeless sounds and introspective themes doesn't overlook these discussions but reframes them, highlighting the necessity of balance in experiencing moments with music.
For Gen Z, a generation accustomed to both fast-paced online interactions and a daily onslaught of world news, Indigo might offer that breath of fresh air, a digital detox or a brief retreat without completely disconnecting. It’s easy to picture yourself somewhere quiet, intentionally away from everything, just lost in the immersive worlds the tracks create.
Wild Nothing’s Indigo, blending tradition with innovation, doesn’t just echo the past but invites new listeners to explore its intricate dreamscapes. Through it all, Jack Tatum's artistry reminds us of the beauty in understanding the complexities of life—and why sometimes, it’s okay to have a moment where we simply let the music guide us towards introspection and calm.