Released: 26 November 2021
Westlife deliver boyband anthems and classic ballads on their latest album ‘Wild Dreams’.
The group hones in on a winning formula of anthemic choruses, layered synths and stadium-ready beats for half of the record, which is unquestionable their most contemporary yet.
Lead single Starlight is one of their best and, across the ‘80s-influenced Alone Together and electronic title track, the group are miles away from the trademark slow-burners that propelled them up the charts worldwide.
But old habits die hard and, hitting the mid-way mark, there’s a noticeable shift in style as the bangers die down and the trusty stools come out once again.
Sometimes it’s a positive thing – tracks like Lifeline and Rewind offer a moment’s respite and are welcome amid the high energy offerings – but inspiration dwindles as the record plays on.
Perhaps the strength of the first half of ‘Wild Dreams’ goes against its favour, but by the time sentimental ballads My Hero and Always with Me come around, the spark has all but died.
It’s truly a shame, because – had they stuck to their guns – the band could have produced one of their strongest albums yet.
But in the end, the album is more mild than wild, and struggles to live up to its early promise.
‘Wild Dreams’ is available on CD and cassette. An Amazon exclusive edition is also available.
