Why Bonnie breaks the ties that bind on their sophomore LP, Wish on the Bone. The trio leaves behind the longing for the Lone Star State that defined 2022’s 90 in November along with their rose-colored romanticism. In its place, vocalist Blair Howerton sets out to discover what it means to live a life unburdened by expectations and unattached to the weight of staying in one place. The album is decorated with their signature Western influence along with bright guitars and massive build-ups that mimic the light of unwavering hope illuminating Howerton’s songwriting.
The influences playlist they crafted for us is rife with artists like Big Thief, who possess the same ability to encapsulate earth-shattering emotions while experimenting with a range of genres. But they also give a nod to fellow Texans Brooks & Dunn and reminisce on some of their beloved middle-school alt-rock bangers. A playlist that pays homage to their earliest influences while keeping their eyes locked on the latest in the indie rock arena, it exudes the same excitement for the future—and occasional glance in the rearview mirror—that shapes Wish on the Bone.
You can purchase Wish on the Bone here, and check out their picks below.
Angel Olsen, “Shut Up Kiss Me”
Angel is a huge influence for me. I’ve always been inspired by her range of genres and musicality. This song hits so hard—like a feminine punch to the gut.
Mazzy Star, “Ride It On”
Arguably one of the most iconic vocalists of our time. The treatment on her vocals is always A1, too—just enough classy reverb to really make them feel expansive.
The Killers, “When You Were Young”
This band has been with me since middle school, and I’ve only learned to love them more. I love how their music is so bombastic and bold while still maintaining really great pop melodies.
The Weather Station, “Tried to Tell You”
I love how this song is subtle but still has such a heavy groove. It’s so classy and makes me want to wear an all-white outfit. I can’t explain any further.
Sorry, “Willow Tree”
My bandmates and I are big fans of this album and agree that it should be way bigger than it is. I loved the punchy drums and guitars in tandem with the fun, almost nursery-rhyme-esque, vocal melody.
Broken Social Scene, “7/4 (Shoreline)”
I mean, what can I say? BSS was a huge band for me growing up, and I feel like I just now got around to making music that even slightly resembles theirs.
Brooks & Dunn, “Neon Moon”
If you’re from Texas, then you probably know this song. Not only is it great for karaoke, but it has one of the best choruses of all time. I definitely wanted some ’90s country elements on this record.
Big Thief, “Little Things”
This song feels brave and it makes me feel brave when I listen to it. It made me want to throw a bunch of things at the wall to see if they stuck. It also forced me to think differently about how arrangements should/shouldn’t be.
Cass McCombs, “Unproud Warrior”
This song came out just around the time we were getting into the studio to record Wish on the Bone, and I was inspired by a lot of the sounds—particularly the warm warbly keys.
Silversun Pickups, “Lazy Eye”
I remember loving this song in middle school, but only knew it in the context of getting ready for school while listening to VH1 Top 20 Video Countdown. I didn’t get into the full album until somewhat recently, and was really blown away. I sound so lame but it made me fall in love with rock ’n’ roll again.
