John Ross poses the question, “Do you still believe it?” after navigating through the wreckage and singing of thunder on the track and lightning in a bottle. These familiar tropes are used intentionally, as Ross returns to the timeless wisdom of his classic rock predecessors, searching for answers once again. This theme is central to “The Fences Of Stonehenge,” the lead single and opening track of Wild Pink’s new album, *Dulling The Horns*. The question echoes throughout the album: “Do you still believe it?” And what happens when belief falters?
Ross’ answer is to begin anew. From the late ’10s to the early ’20s, Wild Pink experienced a classic rise. The ethereal synth-Americana of 2018’s *Yolk In The Fur* brought critical acclaim, while the expansive gloss and ambition of 2021’s *A Billion Little Lights* aimed for greatness at the brink of the band’s breakthrough. Then, Ross received a life-altering cancer diagnosis. Wild Pink’s subsequent album, 2022’s *ILYSM*, inevitably bore the weight of themes of mortality and love. Emerging from this period, Ross began to reimagine Wild Pink’s identity.
Today marks the unveiling of this new chapter, with Ross announcing *Dulling The Horns*, set for release on October 4th via Fire Talk Records, and sharing the lead track “The Fences of Stonehenge.”
“Dulling The Horns” captures Wild Pink at a pivotal moment, frayed yet seeking renewal. After battling cancer and recounting his story through an album cycle, Ross found himself drained but yearning for new inspiration. “You zoom out, and I’m very fortunate,” he reflects. “But *Dulling The Horns* stems from the need to process, move forward, and continue creating.”
Throughout the album, especially in the opening track, Ross’ rediscovery of his creative spark is palpable. The music recalls an earlier era of Wild Pink while integrating the insights gained from their recent work. Bigger and fuzzier than *Yolk In The Fur*, more direct and driving than *ILYSM*, and showcasing some of Ross’ finest songwriting to date, “The Fences of Stonehenge” offers a thrilling glimpse into Wild Pink’s evolving sound.
