Born in Nepal, Art Wilde was raised in a household that discouraged any proclivity of the arts. Despite the heavy disparagement towards the arts, Wilde fell deeply in love with music. After experiencing two life-altering earthquakes, Wilde relocated to New Orleans, the renowned birthplace of jazz. Once he reached New Orleans, Wilde began busking in the streets of New Orleans, showcasing his musical gifts. After spending some time strengthening his musical inclination, Wilde became a sideman in jazz ensembles. While performing and touring with the jazz ensembles, Wilde graced reputable venues, such as the Jazz Museum and the Lakefront Arena. He also appeared on numerous community radio stations, including WWOZ, WAMF, and Crescent City Radio. In recognition of his dedication to the music community, Wilde was the recipient for both the Brumat Award and the Gregerico Frederico Award.
Before releasing his debut album 'Learn to Swim', Wilde released the lead single "Hot Water", which gathered 93,000+ streams in the first few weeks of its release. Wilde is a solo artist for Mad Honey Records, and he intends to use his artistry as a vessel to heal those who seek their healing through music.
Alternative saturated with hints of pop, RnB, electronic and soul, 'Learn to Swim' takes a bold stance against conforming to specific genres of music. In the opening track, Wilde firmly suggests that listeners dive into the album with an open mind that is free of any expectations. "This is not hip hop, this is not EDM, this is not underground or mainstream or country" - ingraining the fact that this masterpiece is not boxed in behind labels. "This is not selling out, this is not buying into trends", Wilde states. "This does not conform to norms, this tape is not the experience you came for...you are".
In 'Learn to Swim', Wilde makes a strong effort to dive into his personal life experiences and display the fluidity of life in each song on the album. In "Hot Water", Wilde displays his musical athleticism in this rhythmic ode to siren songs. In "Wonderful", Wilde takes on a twist to the classic 'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong. Rather than placing sole focus on the external beauty of the world, Wilde highlights the adversities and suffering that countless people, especially certain demographics, face across the global on an everyday basis. "Moon Lamp" is a lighthearted tune that is metaphorically referencing a moon light to someone and/or something that brings him joy and brings light to his life, blocking out all of the hard times that the world may bring his way. In the closing track of the album, Wilde places emphasis on the fluidity of life. With heavy hints of jazz, the closing track gives a reassuring message that we all will be alright in the midst of the chaos that life brings. The sound effects of beach waves crashing assists with the calming nature of this track.
'Learn to Swim' certainly has a song for almost every thought and emotion, which makes this album vastly relatable. The different genres that each song consists of showcases the musical inclination and immense talent of Art Wilde. His ability to create this masterpiece without limits and labels is astonishing. 'Learn to Swim' steps outside of normalcy with its own distinction, and with its relatability and sharp rhythms, the album is nothing short of extraordinary.
Be sure to give 'Learn to Swim' a listen! 'Learn to Swim' will be available on all major streaming platforms on July 24th, 2020!
