Emma and the Fragments – Part of the Wildlife (2021)
With a reputation for hard-hitting melodies and engaging lyricism, Emma and the Fragments are high on our radar for ones to watch. Formed in 2017, the London-based group have a strong following and are having an impact on the UK music scene. Featured on It’s All Indie, YMX, Lost In The Manor and various radio stations (including iHeart Radio), Emma and her crew are making waves on a global scale. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Part of the Wildlife’.
The sophomore single from Emma and the Fragments, ‘Part of the Wildlife’ is a punk-infused explosion of sound from the female-fronted group. While ‘Circles of Concern’ had a slower, steadier indie-rock style, the trio has an “in your face” harshness about ‘Part of the Wildlife’. A beautifully layered track, each element seems to have prominence but there is an effortless harmony in the dynamic melody.
Reminiscent of Bikini Kill, Emma’s distinct vocals add an edgy attitude to ‘Part of the Wildlife’. It seems apt that there is a cheekiness in her tone as the song touches on overcoming the “Regina George’s in the world” – if you don’t know Regina George then think that cheerleader who thinks she’s super-cool and totally hot. An evil entitled bitch (excuse my language) who hates everyone and everything but is secretly quite lonely…Nah, she’s just cruel.
Alongside Emma’s soaring vocals, Jon pounds his drums and Donn entertains us with a scorching guitar solo. A kaleidoscopic mixture of raw energy and tongue-in-cheek lyricism, ‘Part of the Wildlife’ is a no-nonsense punch in the gut, but in the best way possible.
Alongside the single, Emma and the Fragments released an official music video for ‘Part of the Wildlife’. As I have photosensitive epilepsy, I am not able to view the majority of the music video; however, that doesn’t mean I can’t give my opinion on what I can watch. As if walking deeper into a forest, the visuals effectively represent the pounding punk-rock design. According to the press release, “as you prowl the undergrowth, the setting becomes alive with threats: glowing eyes that never avert their gaze and other ferocious creatures waiting to usurp you. We are shown the desperation and paranoia of the bully who feels constantly scrutinised and hounded…”
For more from Emma and the Fragments check out their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
