Goddamn Wolves deliver a sharp, vibrant jolt with “I Hate This Song,” a track that thrives on contradiction and creative spark. Opening with a jagged, catchy guitar riff and a tight rhythmic backbone, the Raleigh trio leans into their alt-rock instincts while injecting just enough modern flair to keep it fresh. It’s a track that sounds immediate, polished, and fully alive.
The production, courtesy of Max Gowan at Found After Dark Audio, captures each element with clarity. Guitars are punchy but not overpowering, the drums are crisp and urgent, and the bass slides in with just enough weight to glue it all together. The arrangement never stalls—every section flows with purpose, using subtle shifts in tone and texture to keep the momentum up without overcrowding the mix.
Vocals play a key role in giving the song its charm. Laura and Chris share lead and harmony duties, bouncing between sarcasm and sincerity. Their chemistry is evident, particularly in the chorus, where Laura’s melodic hook contrasts Chris’s drier tone, turning a seemingly self-critical lyric into something unexpectedly anthemic. The phrase “I hate this song” ends up being oddly infectious—its irony only deepening the appeal.
Lyrically, the band pulls in playful local references and self-aware humor without losing emotional resonance. What starts as frustration becomes something more layered: a nod to burnout, collaboration, and the complexity of creating something that’s both personal and public.
In under four minutes, “I Hate This Song” captures what makes Goddamn Wolves so compelling: sharp writing, great dynamics, and a sound that’s confident without taking itself too seriously.