Mammoth WVH, ‘Mammoth II’ – Track-by-Track Review
Wolfgang Van Halen – Story by Anne Erickson, photo by Travis Shinn
Here’s Audio Ink Radio’s “Mammoth II” track-by-track review
Wolfgang Van Halen has experienced a whirlwind few years. With his 2021 “Mammoth WVH” self-titled release, Wolfgang scored a Grammy nomination for his debut single, “Distance,” as well as multiple other No. 1 singles. He also booked national television appearances and played sold-out shows around the globe. So, how does one follow-up such a stellar first release? Wolfgang answers that question with his new, sophomore album. Read on for Audio Ink Radio’s Wolfgang Van Halen and Mammoth WVH, “Mammoth II” track-by-track review.
Mammoth WVH, ‘Mammoth II’ – Track-by-Track Review
“Mammoth II” sets off with “Right?” featuring nostalgic guitars that sound like they could be playing out of a vintage, ’80s amp. Perhaps that’s not far from the truth? Regardless, this song is a straight-ahead rocker with lots of riffing and powerful, grunge-inspired vocals. “Like a Pastime” follows, and it also has that classic rock feel. Moreover, even with its classic feel, “Like a Pastime” is a mellow rock anthem that could fit alongside Alter Bridge or Chevelle on any playlist.
Mammoth WVH’s chart-topping debut single, “Another Celebration at the End of the World,” follows. This song features upbeat riffs and rhythms and a super jam-y feel. As it moves along, the rhythms shift a bit, so the song takes on a more melodic and less rhythmic feel towards the middle. It’s a dynamic approach that keeps the listener engaged. Next up is “Miles Above Me,” which kicks off with one of the strongest riffs on the entire album. This is a hard rock number with pop-oriented vocals. “Whatever you are, you’re miles above me,” Wolfgang Van Halen sings in this heavy-yet-adorable love song.
“Take a Bow” comes right in the middle of the record. It begins with a beautiful, light musical passage and evolves into a heavier, guitar-driven number. This is one of the strongest songs on the set, bringing that “it” quality and a very memorable chorus. Wolfgang actually recorded the song using his father Eddie Van Halen’s vintage amps and gear. Following, the sixth track on the record is “Optimist,” bringing a groovy, rhythmic rock number. “Optmist” has almost a ’90s grunge or post-grunge vibe, with raspy, powerful vocals and swelling chords.
“I’m Alright” is another nostalgic rock number. This song kicks in with hard-hitting, ’80s-flavored guitars and strong, soaring vocals. “I’m getting over you,” Wolfgang exclaims. What a great breakup song. “I’m Alright” bleeds into “Erase Me,” which has an almost pop-punk feel. The guitars and rhythms are fast-paced and upbeat with a punk character, offering a refreshing switch-up in the record.
As the album nears its finish, “Waiting” pulls things back a few notches, as it presents a yearning, soft rock ballad. Wolfgang sings magically about waiting for a loved one over light, sparking guitars. Finally, “Better Than You” closes out the record in top fashion with more heavy riffing and pounding rhythms.
“Mammoth II” is another winner for Wolfgang Van Halen and his Mammoth WVH. If he was intimated at all by the success of his debut album going into the record sessions for the follow-up, the record certainly doesn’t show it. “Mammoth II” is an inventive collection of songs that covers a range of musical sounds and landscapes. It shows that Wolfgang is not only here to stay, he’s also ready to be an influencer in the modern rock movement with Mammoth WVH.
Ink rating: 9/10. Essential songs: “Take a Bow,” “Waiting,” “Another Celebration at the End of the World” and “Like a Pastime.” For fans of: A mix of nostalgic, classic rock with some added hints of anthemic, modern rock. Online: Mammothwvh.com.
Another big record that dropped in 2023 in heavy music is Metallica’s “72 Seasons.” Read Audio Ink Radio’s track-by-track review of Metallica, “72 Seasons,” here.
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