Ha Vay Explores the Multifaceted Reality of Womanhood in 'Baby I'm The Wolf'
Soft girl summer is here and its fearless leader is Ha Vay, the witchy pop queen of our dreams. This San Francisco-based artist conjures the feminine spirit in a way that’s reminiscent of ethereal legends such as Kate Bush, Hope Sandoval, and Florence and The Machine. Her debut album, Baby I’m The Wolf, explores the many dimensions of womanhood, celebrating everything from the gentleness to the grittiness. The album is accompanied by a strong visual concept, with a sold-out cherry red Urban Outfitters exclusive vinyl and a long-form film premiere in Los Angeles.
With five previously released singles, this ten-track project takes listeners on a sonic journey through the forest of life from the eyes of a strong-willed female narrator. The first track “Ophelia”, which was released back in March, introduces Ha Vay’s unique vocal cadence and knack for crafting a sublime sonic landscape. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree, independent character named Ophelia, reflecting Ha Vay’s own personality and perhaps a projection of who she wishes to be. Following it is the title track, which hones in on the album’s unapologetic depiction of true womanhood. Paired with epic drums that up the intensity, she sings “You think you’ve caught a lamb / But baby, I’m the wolf.”
“Angel! Wild! Superstar!” lives up to its name, creating a sophisticated version of the manic pixie dream girl stereotype that empowers instead of fantasizes. “Pretty Baby” introduces a Western sound that permeates through the remainder of the album, incorporating visceral descriptive imagery and a mesmerizing whispered post-chorus.
The halfway point of this record is a track titled “Fragile.” We hear a subtle sonic shift to the '70s, introducing a soft electric guitar as Ha Vay focuses on the misunderstood power of sensitivity. She sings, “A woman is the sun and the air we breathe,” proving that the natural empathy women possess is a superpower. Although there’s still a wolf inside, even the most ravenous of women cry and that’s what makes them intrinsically connected to the natural world.
“Vampires” explores societal expectations, using a beloved legend to create a powerful metaphor. The track is about how female aging is demonized in society, and how women will do anything to stay young and desirable. Ha Vay’s vocal delivery sounds like a spell being cast and the production resembles a childhood music box, evoking a spooky sound that complements the lyricism. In “Nature’s Bride,” there’s a guiding piano that takes listeners on a journey through the forest while the lyrics compare love to nature, inherent, and organic.
The album ends on “He Wants The Rain,” a powerful sentiment wrapped in an immersive sound. Ha Vay sings about finding a partner that embraces her through everything—the soft moments as well as when the wolf comes out. It’s a beautiful love song that embodies the album as a whole, landing in acceptance after detailing every conflicting and complex attribute that makes up womanhood.
Baby I’m The Wolf is a stunning introduction into Ha Vay’s world, one of enchantment, love and unbridled mess. Although people of any gender can enjoy the experience, it’s catered to the female experience in a way that’s real, honest, and spectacular in its beauty. Ha Vay will be joining Sarah Kinsley this fall on her North American tour and we can’t wait to follow along on this magical artist’s journey.
Listen to Baby I'm the Wolf below:
