Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
Night Wilds’ latest alt rock song, “New Jerusalem,” serves as a poignant cornerstone within the tapestry of their forthcoming debut album, All That Should Have Been. The 17-song concept opus delves into a narrative that strikes chords both emotional and cathartic, chronicling the story of a boy trapped in a cruel circus desperately performing for a madman ringleader.
“New Jerusalem” emerges as a pivotal chapter, plunging listeners into the depths of its thematic complexities. The alt rock composition transcends mere song structure, acting as a vessel for profound and meaningful storytelling. As a part of the rock opera, the track inhabits a universe of its own, offering a glimpse into the tumultuous existence of the central character. This installment, emotionally charged and musically evocative, revolves around themes of identity,the cost of conformity, and the intergenerational transmission of pain.
As the narrative unfolds, “New Jerusalem” introduces us to a young protagonist raised bydevoutly religious parents, a father preoccupied with appearances and a mother dedicated topreserving an idealized image. The boy’s experiences at home are anything but serene, veeringbetween abuse and violence. Bloodstains concealed under clothing mirror his efforts to presentan unblemished facade to the world. The song’s vivid lyrical imagery and haunting melodyintertwine to create a sonic tableau of struggle and secrecy.
In the backdrop of this gripping narrative lies a profound meditation on the dichotomy betweeninternal turmoil and outward pretense. The track delves into the ‘war’ raging both within andwithout and the pressure to pretend that it is in fact not real and not happening. It also begins totell the story of how the children of wars carry the trauma forward, without even knowing, that isheld generationally and transferred from parent to child, without them even knowing. These arethe ‘children of war’. This desperate façade intensifies, culminating in a heartrending and metalstyle crescendo where internalized voices demand, “cover your scars tonight, cover yourtear-stained eyes.” The refrain, echoing his mother’s ominous admonition—”stop crying or I’llgive you a reason to cry”—casts a chilling shadow of domestic distress.
Night Wilds’ ability to encapsulate raw emotions within musical compositions echoes legendslike Pink Floyd and Tool, immersing listeners in a narrative of turmoil, resilience, andtransformation.
As Night Wilds prepares to unveil All That Should Have Been, the profound messagesresonating through “New Jerusalem” offer a tantalizing glimpse into the band’s artistic prowess.The amalgamation of cinematic storytelling, emotive music, and lyrical depth promises an albumthat not only entertains but prompts reflection on the human experience.
