The Actor-to-Musician Stigma: Is it Fair?
Let’s be honest. When you hear an actor is starting a band, you cringe a little. It’s a Pavlovian response at this point. You brace yourself for a vanity project, for music that feels more like a hobby than a craft.
The history of actors who are also musicians is littered with more misses than hits. For every Jared Leto, there are a dozen Russell Crowes. The skepticism is earned.
So when we talk about the music of Finn Wolfhard, we have to cut through that noise first. The immediate question isn’t just 'Is it good?' but 'Is it real?' Does it stand on its own, away from the shadow of Hawkins, Indiana?
As our resident realist, Vix would put it plainly: 'Fame is currency, not talent. He got the meeting, but did he write the song?' This is the core of the challenge in the transition from acting to music. The platform is instant, but respect is not. We're here to look past the famous face and listen to the actual chords being played.
From Calpurnia to The Aubreys: An Evolution in Sound
Artistic growth isn't a straight line; it's a shedding of skins. Luna often reminds us that to understand an artist, you have to look at what they've left behind. For Finn Wolfhard, the journey starts with Calpurnia.
Calpurnia was pure, youthful garage-rock energy. It was the sound of four friends—including other Calpurnia band members Ayla Tesler-Mabe, Jack Anderson, and Malcolm Craig—figuring it out in real-time. The sound was raw, full of jangly guitars and an earnestness you can't fake. It was a snapshot of a moment.
But moments end. When Calpurnia dissolved, it wasn't a failure; it was a necessary closing of a chapter. From its ashes came The Aubreys, his project with former bandmate Malcolm Craig. The shift in sound is palpable. The brash energy is replaced with something more introspective and textured.
As NME noted when The Aubreys released 'Karaoke Alone,' their sound is a blend of fuzzy guitars and a more mature, lo-fi aesthetic. This is where you see the real indie rock influences taking root. It’s less about performing and more about feeling. Luna would call this the symbolic shift from a summer bonfire to a quiet, rainy evening. The songwriting style of Finn Wolfhard evolved from shouting to be heard to whispering something worth leaning in for.
Your Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Finn's Music
Alright, you're curious. But where do you start? Our strategist, Pavo, believes in clear, actionable entry points. Don't just dive in randomly; approach it with a plan. Here is your strategic guide to the Finn Wolfhard music career review.
Step 1: Understand the Roots with Calpurnia
Start with their 2018 EP, Scout. This is essential listening to grasp the foundation.
Listen to 'City Boy': This track captures their raw, high-energy live performance energy. It’s fun, unapologetic rock with clear influences from bands like The Strokes.
Listen to 'Greyhound': Here you get a better sense of their musical chemistry and a slightly more complex songwriting style. It shows potential beyond simple garage rock.
Step 2: Embrace the Evolution with The Aubreys
This is the current, more refined version of his artistic voice. Start with their 2021 album, Karaoke Alone.
Listen to 'Karaoke Alone': The title track is the perfect introduction to their new sound. It's dreamy, melancholic, and layered. The indie rock influences are front and center.
Listen to 'Smoke Bomb': This one has a driving rhythm and showcases a more confident and distinct vocal performance from Finn Wolfhard. It proves the transition from acting to music wasn't just a phase.
Step 3: Watch for the Future
While there is no official Finn Wolfhard solo music album yet, his work in The Aubreys demonstrates a clear and compelling artistic trajectory. By following this path, you get a full picture—not just of a celebrity with a guitar, but of a developing artist finding his voice.
FAQ
1. What happened to Finn Wolfhard's first band, Calpurnia?
Calpurnia, the band Finn Wolfhard was the frontman for, officially announced their breakup in November 2019. The members stated they were parting ways for the start of a new chapter in their lives. Shortly after, Finn and fellow Calpurnia member Malcolm Craig formed their new band, The Aubreys.
2. What kind of music does The Aubreys make?
The Aubreys fall into the indie rock and alternative rock genres. Their sound is often described as lo-fi, with fuzzy guitars, melodic basslines, and introspective lyrics, drawing on indie rock influences from the 90s and early 2000s.
3. Does Finn Wolfhard write his own songs?
Yes, Finn Wolfhard is actively involved in the songwriting process. Both in Calpurnia and now with The Aubreys, he co-writes the music and lyrics, contributing significantly to the band's unique songwriting style.
4. Is Finn Wolfhard going to release a solo album?
Currently, Finn Wolfhard's primary musical focus is his band, The Aubreys. While he hasn't announced any official plans for a solo music project, his artistic evolution continues, and fans are eager to see what he does next.
References
nme.com — Finn Wolfhard’s Band The Aubreys Share New Song 'Karaoke Alone'