Maria Wilman Cross-Examines the Unknown in Debut Album, ‘Dark Horse’, Showcasing Her True Artist Calling
Regardless of when you decide to start on your journey, a true artist will always find their way. On our latest peek into the indie world we are checking out Dark Horse, the latest album drop from Maria Wilman. Wilman’s journey as a musician is deeply rooted in her upbringing and diverse background. Growing up in the politically charged Basque country during the Franco years, she experienced firsthand the complexities and controversies of the time. Being bilingual and bicultural from an early age, she developed a unique perspective on the world, which later played a significant role in shaping her artistic sensibilities. After completing her studies in psychology, Wilman embarked on a career in the healthcare sector, working on NHS hospital wards. While she found psychology intellectually fulfilling, her creative aspirations simmered beneath the surface. She recognized that understanding the intricacies of human thoughts and emotions could be a valuable tool for unraveling the complexities of storytelling and character motivations.
The turning point in Wilman’s life came when she reached the milestone of turning 50 in 2019. This marked the beginning of a new decade and sparked a sense of urgency within her. She realized that time was passing by, and if she wanted to pursue her creative dreams, she had to act now. Despite the fear of taking risks and the uncertainties that lay ahead, she made the bold decision to finally embrace her lifelong passion for music. In the following years, Wilman released three albums, with “Dark Horse” being her debut. Each album represented an artistic exploration and a testament to her dedication to her craft. Making a fresh start at the age of 50 might not be considered typical in society, but Wilman refused to be held back by age-related expectations. Instead, she saw this as an opportunity to break free from societal norms and redefine her path on her own terms.
“I think time is irrelevant in the process. It doesn’t matter whether you arrive when you’re in your 20s or your 50s, as long as you get there,. Maybe where I’m heading is not necessarily the end. The idea of a finish line is just what keeps us going.” – Maria Wilnab
Dark Horse, the latest addition to Wilman’s catalog, is not just a collection of songs but a profound exploration of the human experience and the enigmatic nature of our existence. The album’s genesis was triggered by an innocent remark made by a friend, which led Wilman to delve into the concept of hidden aspects of ourselves suddenly surfacing. This introspection raised thought-provoking questions about what we leave behind in these transitions, the mourning for the life we’ve already lived, and the possibilities that lie ahead. Wilman understands that the answers to these questions are ever-evolving and far from being fixed, as we continuously navigate through the losses and changes, even if they involve parts of our own identity.
The songs in Dark Horse resonate with a certain lived-in quality, reflecting Wilman’s own life experiences, which began in 1969. They exude an archetypal rock ‘n’ roll swagger reminiscent of the compelling sounds of The Pretenders. Yet, at the same time, they possess a dramatic flair and retro-pop edge that draws parallels with the works of artists like Nicole Atkins and A Girl Called Eddy. This blending of influences showcases Wilman’s ability to embrace the past while remaining forward-looking, embodying a sense of urgency that ponders what lies ahead and what will endure in the face of change.
The focus single “Full Circle” stands out as a testament to Wilman’s willingness to explore the unknown and shed light on its shadows and joys. The song delves into the intricacies of time, emphasizing its non-linear nature. Bridging the realms of science and spirituality, Wilman contemplates how they intertwine, while highlighting the significance of love in this complex web of existence. The song serves as a poignant reminder that sometimes, in the process of creating art, messages unfold and repeat themselves like mantras, leading to profound realizations. For Wilman, the theme of love remained constant and essential throughout her creative journey, symbolizing an eternal and interconnected force that guides and shapes our lives.
Make sure you check out Dark Horse on Spotify below!
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Maria Wilman
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Who am I? Just some guy who decided to start writing on the Internet years ago and now operates his own brand and site. Owner/Operator of Modern Neon Media, I make all kinds of niche content to suit my interests at the time. DIY Enthusiast, Brewmaster extraordinaire, and avid freak for geek culture. Follow on my socials for a more “on” version of me.
