Wunderhorse return with new single ‘Midas’
Wunderhorse, the project led by the former Dead Pretties frontman Jacob Slater, is a true marvel in the modern music industry. The band released several promising singles between 2021-22, preheating the oven for the arrival of Cub. Released in September 2022, the debut album instantly endeared audiences across the UK before spreading overseas on the coattails of a successful touring campaign in 2023.
Last year, Slater busied himself with the release of his stripped-back solo album, Pinky, I Love You. In tune with the album’s less energetic tone, it received less publicity and commercial exposure, with Slater focussing on his Wunderhorse commitments. Still, those who did hear it had only had good things to say.
Fans of Slater’s more riotous, grunge-inspired work with Wunderhorse have been without new material for over 18 months. In social media commentary over the past few months, ardent followers have made it quite clear that they are desperate for a Cub follow-up. Sadly, I cannot confirm any news on a new LP, but a new single is the first step, and that’s just what we have for you today.
On April 10th, Wunderhorse finally released their new single, ‘Midas’, following several social media teasers. Although the song is newly recorded, it has been knocking around in Slater’s locker for a little while. As new press materials document, he wrote the track “in a bathtub in Paris” but forgot about it until it resurfaced on tour in Minnesota.”
Those with a basic grasp of Greek Mythology will know that Midas was the son of Zeus, best known for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold, hence the term “Midas touch”. As far as Slater is concerned in his new single, “Midas is the guy who makes you feel like a pencil stub: all used up and nothing to show for it. It’s always just business as far as he’s concerned.”
‘Midas’ is a punchy little number, clocking in at just two minutes in length. Having spent the latter months of its gestation in Minnesota, it contains flecks of Bob Dylan in the vocal emphasis. Sticking with the grunge-infused Americana style we have grown to adore, Slater works his way into intense yelps in the titular refrain. Meanwhile, choppy chord progressions start and stop with an infectious beat.
It remains to be seen if Slater will wholly reinvent his style on the second Wunderhorse album, but ‘Midas’ indicates a subtle nuance sure to maintain a loyal fanbase and ensnare more with a sustained lyrical panache. Watch this space.
Watch the official video for ‘Midas’ below.
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