Artist Spotlight: Forth Wanderers

For fans of The Belair Lip Bombs, Deerhunter and Snail Mail.

“IDK who to tell ab this,” reads a comment on the latest Forth Wanderers post - as a fan living half a world away from the band’s hometown of Montclair, New Jersey, funnily enough I can relate. Routinely, I rediscover the band’s self-titled album every few months and listen to the point of almost overdoing it. Although Forth Wanderers are not as widely known as some of their peers in this part of the world, anyone I’ve met that has heard of the band LOVES them. All this is why I need to tell everyone I know. “This band I love is back with their first song in 7 years - and it’s really good”. 

Forth Wanderers went on hiatus in 2018, with singer Ava Trilling stepping back to care for her mental health. Trilling later wrote an essay for Noisey detailing the lead-up to that decision, saying, “I hope that this piece will help others who are in similar situations, and struggle with mental health issues, feel a little less alone”. Without straying too far from the core reason for this write up, while reading Trilling’s essay, there were many moments that resonated with me, feelings I’d struggled my way through myself during my time on stage and on the road. Things that are hard for those who are fortunate to not feel that way could find difficult to understand. I’d like to take a moment here to express my thanks to her for taking the time to share her account openly and honestly. 

Just a few days ago, a track titled To Know Me / To Love Me appeared on the Forth Wanderers Bandcamp and socials — unclear to many if it was an unreleased track or brand new. The track balances lighter moments with contrasting verses that are sludgier and heavier than a lot of their previous work. Think Horse Jumper of Love or Wombo, a mix of grunge/shoegaze and 00’s/10’s esque guitar bands.

Now, with the release of 7 Months, the first official single from their upcoming album (out July 18 via Sub Pop), we can safely say that Forth Wanderers are back. 7 Months is a more upbeat track in comparison, kicking off with an energetic drum break, choppy guitar chords and Trilling’s vocals weaving through the instrumental. I can’t put my finger on exactly what it is but the switch into the chorus feels so uniquely ‘Forth Wanderers’. Upon hearing it I really got the feeling that I’d missed this band and am so stoked they’re back.

If you haven’t checked out these new tracks - or their incredible back catalogue - now’s the time. Forth Wanderers is recommended for fans of The Belair Lip Bombs, Deerhunter and Snail Mail.

Listen to ‘7 Months’ by Forth Wanderers below.