Auckland’s Sheep, Dog & Wolf has made a triumphant return with a new single, marking their first release in four years.
New Single: “Sound of a Distant Wave”
The project, spearheaded by Daniel McBride—a two-time Taite Music Prize finalist—merges jazz, electronica, post-rock, and avant-pop elements in the ethereal track “Sound of a Distant Wave.” The composition unfolds with clarinets, soft percussion, and a compelling beat, creating a soundscape that feels both fragile and lively.
Thematic Exploration
This song delves into themes of memory and loss.
“Memory is such a strange and unstable thing,” McBride explains. “That becomes particularly evident when you’re losing someone dear to you. At such high stakes, accepting that everything fades and warps with time is a daunting task. Sound of a Distant Wave is my attempt to find ways to hold on.”
A Glimpse into McBride’s Journey
McBride dedicated three years to writing and recording his latest work, closely refining each lush arrangement. As highlighted in reviews, his previous album Two-Minds showcases his ability to seamlessly blend jazz, folk, and electronica, resulting in uniquely immersive soundscapes.
His 2014 debut album Egospect earned the Critics’ Choice Prize at the Aotearoa Music Awards and received a Taite nomination, although he was up against Lorde that year.
A Self-Taught Virtuoso
With classical training in saxophone and a self-taught background in various other instruments, McBride’s musical journey began at the age of 17. His debut EP, Ablutophobia, recorded between high school classes, garnered acclaim from prestigious outlets like The Guardian and Vogue Italia, the latter likening him to a “young Sufjan Stevens.”
Sheep, Dog & Wolf’s “Sound of a Distant Wave” is available now.
What are your thoughts on McBride’s musical evolution, and how do you feel about this blend of genres?
