Wild Cat Strike - Attentive blood

Wild Cat Strike 

Attentive Blood
self-released; 2013

3.7 out of 5

By Stephanie Windfeldt

Wild Cat Strike’s sophomore release Attentive Blood came out in June of 2013, and every track holds the thrill of a warm, summer night. It is the second release from Wild Cat Strike. The first EP, Shout At Satan, was released in April of 2012.  It was recorded and mixed in a day and distributed free of charge. This verve and bigheartedness are just a few markers of Wild Cat Strike’s unique approach to creating music.

The band hails from Brighton, United Kingdom. Their sound is reminiscent of Tapes ‘n Tapes or Modest Mouse. Wild Cat Strike formed in 2011 and since then they have been building a formidable domestic presence, playing local shows and festivals and collaborating with other Brighton artists. They are quick to give a shout out to fellow artists and people that have helped along the way, like Tigercub, Fishboy and Ian – father of drummer, Joe Caple. Attentive Blood was an independent pursuit. It was recorded, mixed and mastered at Yellow Fish Studios in Lewes, Britain. 

Wild Cat Strike uses religious allegories to transfer new ideas into relatable and familiar format. Their sound is a little emo and a little grunge and completely modern. The drums in “Sarah, Abraham, Isaac and the Mountainside” shine. The guitar work is beautiful and engaging. The lyrics are deep ideas simply phrased. 

“Dictionary Factual” brings in a sweet collaboration of guitar, drums and bass. The vocals are an equal instrument and provide a neo-grunge tone. I like that their sound is not overly sweet, and not at all sad. It comes off as original and deeply sincere.The title track, “Attentive Blood,” is thoughtful and lyrically raw. The power chords create an energetic and full sound. “Bastard Child” finishes the EP with a light and melancholic vibe.

If I had to describe Wild Cat Strike in one word, it would be “delightful.” Wild Cat Strike gives off the distinct impression of being youthful, charming, and a tiny bit naughty – the perfect English schoolboy. A band with this flavor of distinctive energy is guaranteed to draw a fun crowd. Give Wild Cat Strike a listen in the late afternoon, or better yet, go see them perform at one of their shows.

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