Woodpecker Wooliams – Gull (single)

Super-talented Brighton-based female vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Woodpecker Wooliams’ new single, Gull, is matchless. Taken from her album The Bird School of Being Human, which is out now, Gull features this special, unique musician at the height of her oddness: lyrics about domestic violence, contradictory musical accompaniment, and her ever so distinctive voice (you might be reminded of Bjork). 

The lyrics, though certainly dark, are complemented by a simple, bright harp loop, distorted, industrial drum-programming, what sounds like a bird screeching in the background and a long pause at the end – to allow you to get your head round it all. 

“I could never forget that smile you gave, that saved my wretched life that day” – without the lyrical component, this would sound like a futuristic daytime lullaby. The magic of Woodpecker Wooliams is that she is able to portray herself as innocuous and loveable with the use of her music and beautiful voice, yet intertwine incredibly thought-provoking and unsettling lyrics. Just check the album out. Go on I dare you. 

“What the hell are you staring at? Just give me my goddamn cup of tea” – she’s even telling a story in the eyes of a reflective wife beater. If she sounds like your cup of tea, she’ll be touring the UK from October this year. See dates below. 

Matt Di Salvo

Gull is out now on Robot Elephant Records. For more information or to order the album visit Woodpecker Wooliams’s website here. 

Woodpecker Wooliams will be touring from October to December this year. For more information and to purchase tickets, please click on the relevant tour date. 

October

13^th – London, Union Chapel.

24^th – Cardiff, Ten Feet Tall  

25^th –Bristol, Grain Barge

28^th – Eaglescliffe, The Waiting Room:

29^th – Manchester, Night n Day:

30^th – Sowerby Bridge, Puzzle Hall  

November

14^th – London, Old Queen’s Head 7.30pm:

16^th – The End Festival

December

1^st – Glasgow, Platforms SHH Festival