Wilder Woods, better known as Bear Rinehart, has released his first solo album via Atlantic Records.
After much speculation to his identity, Rinehart, who is the front-man of the vastly popular band Needtobreathe, decided to try something new.
The self-titled album can be described as a love letter to his wife, Mary Reams, and his two sons, Wilder and Woods, the namesakes of the project.
The lead singles, “Sure Ain’t” and “Someday Soon” were produced by Gabe Simon of the group Kopecky and were recorded at Layman Drug Company studios in Nashville.
Other contributors to the album include Trent Dabbs, Carson Cooley, Ian Fitchuk, and The Watson Twins.
The opening track “Light Shine In” provides an upbeat, cheerful, and positive sound, while “Sure Ain’t,” and “Someday Soon” provide a Soul/Motown vibe.
Tracks like “Electric Woman,” “What Gives You The Right,” and “Feel” give a different perspective on the modern Top-40 sound by incorporating harmonies, guitar, and meaningful lyricism.
“Supply and Demand,” “Mary, You’re Wrong,” and “Hillside House,” are clearly and beautifully written love songs to his wife that detail how relationships are hard work but rewarding when we try.
The closing track “Religion” sounds like something heard in a church, which is a sign of Rinehart’s upbringing. (If this song is not performed acapella on his upcoming tour, it will be a sorely missed opportunity.)
Overall, Wilder Woods is an amazing solo debut for someone who has already achieved so much. It is honest, raw, and simply beautiful. It is clear through the lyrics how much Rinehart cherishes his family. It is not too far off from the Needtobreathe sound audiences can recognize, but the music has a different feel. This album is great for anyone who loves powerful vocals with a chill vibe.
Tour Dates
Sept. 5 – Toronto, ON, CA – The Mod Club
Sept. 7 – Philadelphia, PA – World Cafe Live
Sept. 8 – Cambridge, MA – The Sinclair
Sept. 9 – Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg
Sept. 11 – Washington, DC – 9:30 Club
Sept. 13 – Raleigh, NC – Lincoln Theatre
Sept. 14 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground
Sept. 15 – Birmingham, AL – WorkPlay Theatre – SOLD OUT
Sept. 16 – Nashville, TN – The Basement East
Sept. 18 – Atlanta, GA – Terminal West
Sept. 19 – Nashville, TN – The Basement East SOLD OUT
Sept. 23 – Chicago, IL – Metro
Sept. 24 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line Music Cafe
Sept. 25 – Madison, WI – Majestic Theatre
Sept. 27 – Lawernce, KS – Granada Theatre
Sept. 28 – Omaha, NE – Slowdown
Sept. 30 – Denver, CO – Bluebird Theater
Oct. 2 – Salt Lake City, UT – Metro Bar
Oct. 4 – Portland, OR – Hawthorne Theatre
Oct. 6 – San Francisco, CA – The Independent
Oct. 7 – Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour
Oct. 20 – Hamberg, DE – HÄKKEN
Oct. 21 – Cologne, DE – Helios 37
Oct. 23 – Paris, FR – 1999 Club
Oct. 24 – Amsterdam, NL – Paradiso
Oct. 25 – Glasglow, UK – King Tuts Wah Wah Hut
Oct. 27 – Manchester, UK – The Deaf Institute
Oct. 28 – London, UK – The Camdem Assembly