Concert Preview:
Wild Belle

Never has there been a sibling duo with such musical talent quite like the Midwest twosome that makes up Wild Belle. But considering their musically-inclined parents and upbringing, it should come as no surprise that Natalie and Elliot Bergman innately create sounds worthy of a second (and third or fourth) listen. With Elliot serving as the talented multi-instrumentalist and Natalie the sultry, almost-raspy crooner, providing lead vocals, the reggae-infused beats they produce are dichotomies of contemporary American pop and jazzy Jamaican jams.

Isles, Wild Belle’s debut album, was released in March by Columbia Records and features such hits as “Keep You,” a track laden with the sounds of elder brother Elliot schmoozing on the sax, and arguably the most upbeat single, “It’s Too Late.” The album, so named because each song is an island of its own distinct sound, does have an appropriately breezy quality, best listened to when donning an (ironically) tropically printed shirt or flowing sundress. On the whole Natalie dominates as Isles‘s lead vocalist; however, “When It’s Over” provides a welcome change of pace near the end of the album as Elliot’s equally smooth voice is brought to the forefront. While Wild Belle’s first album certainly makes for a playful and effortless listen, at times the lyrics — dominated by the been-there-heard-that theme of unrequited love — at times seem overly simplified or trivial. Still, there’s no doubt the Bergman siblings possess the raw talent to create truly noteworthy tracks.

In the few months following Isles‘s release, Wild Belle has rapidly gained recognition, performing at a slew of festivals such as Coachella, Lollapolooza, and Outside Lands. Now, the duo will continue their tour and perform for the first time in Madison this Thursday at High Noon Saloon. Don’t miss the chance to bask in Wild Belle’s jazzy tunes. If nothing else, the show promises to provide one final dose of summer sounds even if Labor Day has come and gone.