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 thatâs reminiscent of ethereal legends such as Kate Bush, Hope Sandoval, and Florence and The Machine. Her debut album, Baby Iâm 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 âOpheliaâ, which was released back in March, introduces Ha Vayâs 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 Vayâs own personality and perhaps a projection of who she wishes to be. Following it is the title track, which hones in on the albumâs unapologetic depiction of true womanhood. Paired with epic drums that up the intensity, she sings âYou think youâve caught a lamb / But baby, Iâm the wolf.â
âAngel! Wild! Superstar!â lives up to its name, creating a sophisticated version of the manic pixie dream girl stereotype that empowers instead of fantasizes. âPretty Babyâ 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 âFragile.â 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, âA woman is the sun and the air we breathe,â proving that the natural empathy women possess is a superpower. Although thereâs still a wolf inside, even the most ravenous of women cry and thatâs what makes them intrinsically connected to the natural world.
âVampiresâ 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 Vayâs 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 âNatureâs Bride,â thereâs 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 âHe Wants The Rain,â a powerful sentiment wrapped in an immersive sound. Ha Vay sings about finding a partner that embraces her through everythingâthe soft moments as well as when the wolf comes out. Itâs 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 Iâm The Wolf is a stunning introduction into Ha Vayâs world, one of enchantment, love and unbridled mess. Although people of any gender can enjoy the experience, itâs catered to the female experience in a way thatâs real, honest, and spectacular in its beauty. Ha Vay will be joining Sarah Kinsley this fall on her North American tour and we canât wait to follow along on this magical artistâs journey.
Listen to Baby I'm the Wolf below: