Wild Child is a septet from Austin, TX that will win you over with its intimate blend of orchestral instrumentation and the shared vocals of friends and co-founders Kelsey Wilson and Alexander Beggins. At the beginning of October, the band released their second album, The Runaround, which was produced by Ben Kweller. Their lead track, “Crazy Bird,” debuted at #1 on SubModern Singles, dethroning the likes of Haim, Sleigh Bells, and Arcade Fire.
Tonight, they will perform at the Grog Shop with two local favorites: Dolfish and Shivering Timbers. In between their hectic tour schedule, we caught up with Alexander Beggins to get to know the band a little better. Check it out below!
What made you want to play music?
The party tray of sandwiches that are sometimes in the green room and how much fun it all seemed when we were 14.
Is there anyone in your family that is musical?
Half are extreme talented and the other half couldn’t strum a chord to save their life.
How did Wild Child begin?
In a forest we took our first picture and it looked band-y. We joked about starting a band and then started writing ukulele songs. Then, it all snowballed.
How did you meet the other members of the band?
Some are friends and some are family. Actually now it feels like we are a family. Or six people in a dysfunctional relationship.
What inspires your sound?
Booze and sadness and a love for writing songs as an outlet of our emotions.
How did the writing process change for “The Runaround”?
It’s more thought out and tasteful. More producers, more Ben Kweller, and more class.
Is there a band member who is the catalyst for songwriting or is it collaborative?
Kelsey and I (Alexander) write the songs, then the band puts it all together.
What prompted the decision to work with Ben Kweller?
His beautiful attitude and soul.
How do you feel about the resurgence of vinyl?
#lovesit
Do you have a record collection? If so, what is your favorite album in it?
Yes! The Willie Nelson/Roger Miller Collaboration album.
What do you think sets vinyl apart from other formats?
It’s bigger I think.
What is the most rewarding part of following your passion for music?
Seeing people sing our songs; it’s a trip.
UPCOMING SHOWS:
Oct 23 at Grog Shop in Cleveland, OH
*For more information on tonight’s show at Grog Shop, simply click here.
Oct 24 at The Pike Room in Pontiac, MI
Oct 29 at Ice House in Minneapolis, MN
Oct 30 at Vaudeville Mews in Des Moines, IA
Oct 31 at Frequency in Madison, WI
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