Sketchdoll Reveals Sophomore Album ‘Afterwildlife’

London-based quartet Sketchdoll caps off 2024 with the release of their second album, Afterwildlife, a richly layered exploration of musical genres and styles.

Sketchdoll – Afterwildlife

Following the success of their debut, See Through Me (2020), and a series of well-received singles throughout the year, Sketchdoll continues to expand their artistic horizons. Tracks like Hourglass boast over 25,000 Spotify streams, underscoring the band’s growing audience.

Recorded in Manchester, Afterwildlife takes Sketchdoll’s sound to new heights. The album blends an array of influences, including funk, spoken word, indie folk, jazz fusion, Americana, blues, bedroom pop, psychedelia, and progressive rock, crafting a richly textured sonic odyssey.

The album opens with ‘Hypothermia’, a jazz-tinged piece that layers intricate guitar patterns and compelling vocals to establish an arresting tone. Tracks like ‘Attitude’ and ‘Reaching’ build on this momentum, showcasing playful grooves and commanding vocal performances. The interlude ‘He Who Dares’ shifts gears with poetic spoken word and hypnotic drum work, adding a thoughtful pause to the album’s flow.

The title track, ‘Afterwildlife’, introduces a more tranquil atmosphere, featuring dreamy vocals and lush instrumentation while maintaining the album’s engaging hooks. In contrast, ‘There’s More Of Them Than Us’ delivers a fast-paced showcase of the band’s technical prowess, marked by tight instrumentation and unrestrained energy.

‘You’re Not Done With Me’ offers a reflective moment, gradually building from subdued tones to powerful riffs that highlight the group’s versatility. ‘Sierra Echoes’ introduces a Western-inspired vibe, with its galloping rhythm conjuring imagery of the open plains. Meanwhile, Skysurfer guides listeners through a dreamlike journey of jazz-inspired drumming, ethereal vocals, and mesmerizing guitar work.

The delicate ‘Just Be’ blooms with intricate instrumentation and a touching string arrangement, while ‘Fairweather Lover’ infuses the album with refreshing energy, thanks to its lively, math-rock-inspired bassline. The interlude Afterwildlife (Interlude) sets the stage for the album’s finale, giving the guitar a spotlight in a captivating performance.

Closing with ‘Letting the Chips Fall’, Sketchdoll delivers a masterful finish. This emotionally charged track features soaring melodies, memorable hooks, and standout guitar work backed by polished production.

“Afterwildlife highlights Sketchdoll’s creativity and skill—a cohesive, vibrant collection that showcases their ability to blend diverse influences seamlessly.”

Don’t miss the chance to experience Sketchdoll live at their album launch gig on Wednesday, November 27, at The Fox & Firkin in London. It promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.