November 4th, 2011 
James Shotwell 
Artist: Wayward
Album: With Love EP
Genre: Pop/rock
Label: (unsigned)
Wayward have fashioned an impressive release with this four-track EP. It’s a blend of a sly, braver sensibility with something more traditional; a pop-rock EP with decidedly more elevated ambitions. It’s strong and capable, with a warm and likeable optimism evident throughout that ought to win them several admiring listeners.
“Take All Of Me” provides an alluring start. Gentle folds of music develop around a muted lead vocal, building gradually in energy and intensity and adding more instruments for a fuller sound. The pace is quite measured, and the overall vibe one of colour and earnestness. The chorus is particularly appealing, with an assured and temperate rhythm that draws you in slowly but surely. The band seem to be aiming for a more conscious stirring of their listeners, focusing on creating a sharpness of sound and mood as opposed to an all-out sonic onslaught. It’s a more thoughtful approach, and it serves them well.
“Liar” is another interesting effort. The opening is more like a musing, seeming quite pensive and reflective. It then unexpectedly unveils a charged chorus with rushing, determined guitars, lending the track a darker and moodier character. The bridge sounds almost experimental – there’s a certain playfulness to it, despite the hint of darkness in vocalist Chris Stanton’s acerbic tones, and the band once again seem to excel in crafting something a little more imaginative and gripping. “Light It Up” is less impressive however. Considering the flair that marked the two preceding tracks, it seems a bit too safe, though it is founded upon a decidedly more affectionate message so this is perhaps to be expected. As it is, the simplicity of the song does work in its favour, the sentiment proving warm and endearing. There are some quality harmonies and an edgy bass line, giving it a little something extra to stand out.
Finally, “To Infinity and Beyond” stays true to the lofty notions postulated in its title. The intro has a hint of Florence and the Machine, if the ethereal Flo were covered by a rock band. The verse is again decidedly measured and slow, taking its time and getting a feel for itself. The accompanying instrumentation is interesting – there are some underlying samples, affording a sense of depth and scope, and it feeds into an eloquent chorus led by a romantic piano refrain and strings. It doesn’t entirely follow through on these majestic ambitions, the sound becoming markedly self-serving near the end, but as a whole the sonic palette is gorgeous and the band make an impressive effort.
With Love does indeed seem to be something of a labour of love, and it’s one which deserves an appropriate response. These four tracks all have something to offer a prospective listener, and the skill and imagination on show hint that Wayward have plenty to show us yet. A solid and engaging release.
SCORE: 9/10
Review written by Grace Duffy
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Thank you guys for the coverage, and for the awesome review!! Much appreciated.
You’re most welcome. Brilliant EP lads, kudoes! :)