Manchester-based rock band Villanelle & The Northern Wonder first hit our radar back in 2021 through their storytelling EP Dark Days At The Grand. Since then, they’ve grown from a duo to a five-piece and, with it, bring a bigger sound to their latest single December Bloom.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Villanelle and the Northern Wonder

December Bloom also feels a little like a throwback, channelling ’70s glam rock and Americana influences to re-create them for the 21st century. There’s an unstoppable groove about it all, and the layered vocal harmonies feel all encompassing in the earworm chorus. It sure is something special.

I’m loving this next step on the Villanelle & The Northern Wonder journey. 2023 is shaping up to be a big year for them based on this evidence. You can give December Bloom a listen below.