The Wilds Choir: Indie Folk's Atmospheric Architects

The Wilds Choir is an American indie folk collective known for their expansive, harmony-rich soundscapes. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, the group achieved a significant commercial milestone when their 2018 sophomore album, Horizon Lines, debuted at number 12 on the Billboard Top Alternative Albums chart.

Early career

The ensemble first coalesced in 2012 around the songwriting core of vocalists Elara Vance and Marcus Pike. Their initial self-released EP, Gather the Embers (2014), cultivated a dedicated regional following through relentless touring of Pacific Northwest DIY venues. This grassroots success captured the attention of the independent label Whisper Print Records, which signed the group in early 2015.

Breakthrough

The Wilds Choir's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their critically acclaimed album, Horizon Lines. Released through Whisper Print, the album's lead single gained traction on alternative radio and streaming platforms, propelling the LP to its chart debut. The album's sustained sales were later certified Gold by the RIAA, a rare feat for an independent folk act.

Key tracks

Borrowed Light — This atmospheric single from their debut album established their signature layered vocal approach.

Riversong — The lead single from Horizon Lines became their first track to chart on Billboard's Adult Alternative Airplay list.

Carry the Sound — Featuring guest vocals from folk artist Adeline, this track highlighted their collaborative spirit and expanded their audience.

Northern Sky — A fan-favorite live staple, this song exemplifies their ability to build from quiet folk to soaring, cinematic crescendos.

The success of Horizon Lines allowed The Wilds Choir to headline larger theaters and secure slots at major festivals like Newport Folk and Pickathon. Their follow-up, Echo Canyon (2021), explored more textured production while maintaining their folk roots, landing at number 8 on the Folk Albums chart. They have since collaborated with artists like producer Tucker Martine and contributed to several notable film soundtracks.

Fans of The Wilds Choir's intricate harmonies and atmospheric indie folk often appreciate the work of The Decemberists for their narrative songwriting and Pacific Northwest origins. The vocal interplay and folk-rock instrumentation of First Aid Kit also share a clear musical kinship. The expansive, mood-driven soundscapes of Lord Huron offer a similar sense of widescale Americana. For those drawn to the collective's harmonic density, The Staves provide a compelling parallel in the modern folk scene.

The music of The Wilds Choir maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly across adult alternative and independent music radio stations. Their catalog receives consistent spins on specialty folk programs and online rock radio streams dedicated to showcasing nuanced songwriting and vocal artistry.

Listeners can discover the rich discography of The Wilds Choir by tuning into the curated indie folk and alternative rock stations featured on our website. Their music is regularly in rotation on onairium.com, providing the perfect gateway to experience their evolving sound.