Finn Wolfhard’s musical journey with Happy Birthday album launches the Stranger Things actor into the spotlight, showcasing a depth and range that stands out among his talented castmates. Released on June 6 via AWAL, the album is a testament to his passion for music, capturing both the energetic edge and sentimental heart that define his unique artistry.
Expanding Beyond the Screen: Wolfhard’s Deep Musical Roots
While many members of the Stranger Things cast like Maya Hawke, Joe Keery, and Jamie Campbell Bower have impressively explored musical ventures, Finn Wolfhard’s relationship with music is especially profound. From his earliest role at age 11 in a PUP music video to leading bands like Calpurnia and The Aubreys, Wolfhard’s creative history reveals a genuine and lifelong commitment to his craft. His eclectic listening habits, which span from The Beatles to Lingua Ignota, inform the diverse sound of his debut album.
A Distinctive Sound Emerges in ‘Happy Birthday’
Happy Birthday is not an album that shies away from imperfections. From its opening title track, there’s a raw quality, almost warped and atonal, as Wolfhard asks, ‘Happy birthday / What do you want?’ Recording the album on cassette grants the nine tracks a natural warmth, offsetting the more polished tendencies often found in mainstream releases. Songs like Choose carry a nostalgic ’90s alt-rock vibe reminiscent of heroes like Eels, while Eat boasts gritty, noisy riffs that echo the early, less-refined days of Weezer.
Crown serves as the album’s centerpiece, blending agile, grungy instrumentals with a dash of Beatles-inspired flair. This range reflects Wolfhard’s influences and his willingness to experiment with sounds that are sometimes unconventional but always sincere.
Emotional Folk Influences and Personal Touches
Wolfhard’s sentimental side comes to the fore with acoustic, folk-tinged offerings. Tracks like Objection! feature upbeat, charming strums, while Everytown delivers a gentle, nocturnal serenade. Each song reveals a piece of Wolfhard in moments of solitude, underscoring the album’s authenticity—it feels like the work of a young artist sitting cross-legged in his bedroom, creating for no audience other than himself.
Why ‘Happy Birthday’ Resonates With Listeners
The album’s relatability and down-to-earth sensibility are its hallmarks. Happy Birthday carries an indie film aura, easily fitting into the soundtrack of everyday lives. Yet at its core, the record remains a wholly personal project: an honest reflection of Finn Wolfhard when the spotlight is off. This transparency and connection to his roots make the album resonate with fans of Eels, Weezer, and The Beatles alike.
Looking Ahead: Impact of Wolfhard’s Debut
With Happy Birthday released to strong early reviews and a 4/5 rating, Finn Wolfhard’s debut establishes him as more than just a television star dabbling in music. Released via AWAL, the album marks a significant step in his career as an artist devoted to authenticity and experimentation, suggesting that Wolfhard’s influence in the world of indie rock will only continue to grow.
