It’s been six years since The Antlers released their last album, Familiars, shortly after which they went on indefinite hiatus. They re-formed last year to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their break-out album Hospice, and the two remaining original members, Peter Silberman and Michael Lerner, seem to have used that momentum to send them back into writing together. The first fruit has come in the form of new single “Wheels Roll Home”, about which Silberman says:
““Wheels Roll Home” is a simple song about the hopeful promise of reunion after a long time gone. It’s that feeling of finding home in someone, eager and impatient to build a life together. It’s the experience of waiting out tumultuous times, longing for stability someday.”
The song is probably more about a romantic reunion – anything sounds romantic in Silberman’s voice – but could just as easily be attributed to the return of The Antlers. “Wheels Roll Home” maintains the relaxed, ethereal sound that they had been honing towards the end of their previous run, but with a more indelible and sway-along chorus than was to be found on Familiars. The song is immediately redolent of The Antlers of old, but that’s no bad thing, especially as “Wheels Roll Home” starts to blossom in slow motion with subtle woodwinds carefully backing Silberman as he hits his most expressive voice in the song’s gorgeous refrain.
Listen to “Wheels Roll Home” on streaming platforms or below.
There’s no confirmation as yet that there will be more to come from The Antlers, but the signs are all good. For now, follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
