Somewhere in Connecticut, musician Oliver Peterson aka Werewolf has crafted one of the most well rounded records I’ve heard in a long time. The singer/songwriter has put together their sixth about since 2020. The first five were all titled numerically but this new album is called “Methods” and it’s made up of eight incredible songs.
Opening number “Hot” is an up tempo track that features some blistering electric guitar work and driving drums but the focal point of it all is Peterson’s voice which showcases tremendous range and has a kind comforting vibe to it.
Next we glide into the albums title track which features free flowing layers of modulated guitar and a shuffling rhythm. The song combines elements of shoegaze, space country and ambient music with a classic pop structure that’s very enjoyable while the acoustic based piece “The Golden Pearl” shows another layer to Peterson’s songwriting abilities.
The heartfelt sounds of “Tend To” add a breezy, moody element to everything that eventually gives way to the elegantly distorted piece known as “Dirtbomb”.
I think “New Shirt” might be my favorite track of them all. The rich, powerful dynamics and anathematic choruses really stand out. There’s a ton of passion that Peterson puts into it and it shows with every word.
Other highlights include the catchiness of “Don’t Want” and the grizzled rocker “The Recipe” which closes out the record and leaves you wanting more.
Bottom line, “Methods” is a tremendous album created by one of the top up and coming songwriters going today and I can’t recommend it enough.
