The year was 1989. Tim Burton had just released his version of Batman, the reality of Cops on Fox was taking the world by storm, and groups such as En Vogue, The Rembrandts, and West Bromwich’s WOUNDEDSPiRiT formed. For the next six years, WOUNDEDSPiRiT played everywhere they could and impressed the likes of Steve Wright at Radio 1. While they had a run in Spain in 2000, the band seemed to come to an end after that. That is until 2016. They got back together for a Judgestock show and by the following year were back in the studio working on the first song for their debut album, 2018’s FOREVER young.
With a sound that falls under a variety of umbrellas, WOUNDEDSPiRiT could fit in a multitude of places. FOREVER young not only incorporates various styles but topics as well. From songs about love like “Love is By My Side” and “She Knows” to more political tunes such as “Fake News” and “STANDUP,” it’s clear that the talented musicians that makeup WOUNDEDSPiRiT had a lot to say and wanted to present a well-rounded record with every side of themselves showing for the world to see.
When it comes to standouts on FOREVER young, one can’t go wrong with the title track. A cover of Alphaville’s signature hit, WOUNDEDSPiRiT did enough to make it their own without stripping away what we love about it; the vocals. Jason Kelly serves up pitch perfection with this rendition of a well-known track. Another song that will have people hitting repeat is “10000 Shades of Blue.” From the fun arrangement to the upbeat delivery, it hits all the marks and then some.
WOUNDEDSPiRiT may have taken a break once the new millennium set in, but they’re back and better than ever with a debut that’s been almost 30 years in the making. Check out FOREVER young, out now.
