The Minneapolis-based craft pop/alternative rock quartet Southern Resident Killer Whales has unleashed a tidal wave of creativity with their latest EP, Wave Forms. Released on January 25, 2025, this seven-track project is a kaleidoscope of sound, offering a genre-bending experience that highlights the band’s artistry and fearless approach to songwriting. Known for their ability to “take a song wherever it wants to go,” Southern Resident Killer Whales prove once again that they are as unpredictable as their namesake and twice as captivating.
In Wave Forms, the Whales have crafted a collection of songs that defy the traditional boundaries of alt-rock. Each track is a self-contained world, yet together they form a cohesive journey through raw emotion, clever storytelling, and a deep love for melody and harmony. The EP opens with “Artists That Hate Me,” a wry and introspective anthem that blends sharp lyricism with an irresistible groove. It’s a statement piece, setting the tone for the eclectic mix that follows.
“Play’s the Thing” is a standout track, with its theatrical flair and anthemic energy that echoes the band’s playful yet introspective ethos. This song embodies the essence of craft pop—each note feels deliberate, each lyric purposeful, yet it carries an effortless charm that makes it instantly engaging. On the other end of the spectrum, “Fall Essay” channels the spirit of 90s alternative rock, with gritty guitars and a melancholic undercurrent that resonates deeply.
The EP’s emotional core is undoubtedly “With Love, Always.” This intimate track showcases frontman Dan Hylton’s lyrical vulnerability, weaving a poignant narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. It’s a quiet moment in the EP, yet one that leaves an indelible mark. Complementing this is “Easy Go” a cathartic piece with a driving rhythm that captures the essence of release and renewal. The song’s powerful instrumentation and dynamic structure make it a highlight of the album.
“Let It Go” offers a breezy yet bittersweet reprieve, pairing clever slice-of-life observations with a melody that feels like a warm summer day tinged with nostalgia. The track’s lightheartedness is deceptive, as the lyrics reveal layers of complexity and introspection. It’s this balance of quirky humor and raw emotion that has become a signature of the Whales’ sound, earning them praise from fans and critics alike.
The EP closes with the shimmering 80s-style pop anthem “Dreamsong.” A triumphant and uplifting finale, it’s a track that feels like stepping into a dream, with lush harmonies and soaring melodies that linger long after the music fades. The Whales have a knack for creating songs that feel both timeless and refreshingly modern, and “Dreamsong” is no exception.
What sets Southern Resident Killer Whales apart is their steadfast dedication to the craft of songwriting. While many bands in the alt-rock space rely on a wall of sound, the Whales focus on lifting melodies, harmonies, and lyrics to the forefront. Their music is as much about the intricate details as it is about the emotional impact. The result is a sound that’s sophisticated yet approachable, catchy yet deeply meaningful.
Described as a blend of a slightly offbeat Glen Hansard and a slightly upbeat Morrissey, the Whales’ music spans a wide emotional and stylistic range. Whether it’s the captivating chamber-pop arrangements or the driving, harmony-laden indie rock, there’s always a sense of purpose and authenticity behind their work. Lyrically, Dan Hylton bares it all, capturing life’s significant moments with a mix of wit, advocacy, and unfiltered vulnerability.
Southern Resident Killer Whales have built their reputation as a staple of Minneapolis’s vibrant music scene, performing at craft breweries and festivals where their eclectic sound feels perfectly at home. Their music is not just heard—it’s felt, creating a connection that resonates with audiences long after the final chord.
With Wave Forms, Southern Resident Killer Whales have delivered an EP that’s as dynamic and unpredictable as the ocean itself. Each track is a wave of emotion, from the contemplative depths of “With Love, Always” to the euphoric highs of “Dreamsong.” It’s an album that invites listeners to dive in, explore, and let the music take them wherever it wants to go.
As the Whales continue to carve out their place in the indie music landscape, Wave Forms stands as a testament to their creativity, passion, and dedication to their craft. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this EP is a journey worth taking—proof that sometimes, the best stories don’t need words to be told.
