Wilhelm’s third studio album, “Wake Me in the Sunrise”, is a heartfelt dive into the lo-fi folk genre, marked by minimalist arrangements and emotional depth. Known for his collaborations with Murnau and The House Flies, Wilhelm has crafted an intimate and introspective collection of nine tracks that explore themes of loss, memory, and renewal. The album’s raw, unpolished sound, recorded on a 4-track Tascam multitracker, enhances its authenticity, creating an immersive listening experience.

The journey begins with “Midnight Caller on the Moon,” a haunting opener that sets a contemplative tone. Its soft reed organ and delicate guitar arpeggios feel like whispers in a still night, drawing listeners into an ethereal space. This is followed by “Obituary Page,” a track that juxtaposes melancholic lyrics with subtle warmth, as Wilhelm’s understated vocals weave through gentle guitar lines and banjo, offering a quiet sense of nostalgia and reflection.

“Upon the Thinnest Lips” introduces a touch of tension, with restrained instrumentation creating an atmosphere where unsaid words resonate deeply. The interplay of Wilhelm’s poignant lyrics and sparse guitar elevates the track, making it one of the album’s most introspective moments. “All The Things I Need to Say” provides a contrast, picking up the tempo with its country-inspired riffs. The vibrant banjo and guitar pairings lend a rustic charm, while the heartfelt lyrics anchor the song in raw emotion.

The middle of the album brings “Cloudless Wonder Eyes,” a soothing track filled with dreamlike melodies and organ tones. This piece feels like a moment of respite, offering solace amid the album’s heavier themes. “Hopeless Drifting Afternoon” continues the reflective mood, combining acoustic guitars and plaintive harmonica to evoke the quiet beauty of a fading day.

On the more sombre side, “Prophet’s Gun” introduces a darker tone with its eerie minimalism and contemplative lyrics about consequence and choice. It stands as a stark yet compelling addition to the album. The penultimate track, “One to Keep You Warm,” offers a comforting embrace, its layered harmonies and soothing acoustic tones providing a sense of warmth and stability.

The album concludes with “Hold Your Head Now, Baby,” a tender and introspective closer. Its gentle acoustic riffs and soft harmonics leave listeners with a sense of quiet catharsis, encapsulating the album’s themes of healing and resolution.

“Wake Me in the Sunrise” showcases Wilhelm’s ability to transform personal experiences into universal emotions. Each track is a vignette of vulnerability, delivered with poetic lyricism and minimalistic beauty. By stripping his sound to its essence, Wilhelm has created a timeless album that resonates deeply, inviting listeners to reflect, feel, and connect.

You can listen to the album “Wake Me in the Sunrise” by Wilhelm here –