Album Review: 'Scala Hearts' by NINA & Ricky Wilde
Key Quote: "The songs are crafted and catchy as hell - so whats not to love about this record?!"
The 9 track LP 'Scala Hearts' was released in September 2023 by Synthwave Queen NINA and 80s Legendary Producer Ricky Wilde (yes, he's the brother and guitarist for Kim). So, this really is a match made in heaven...
The opening song sets up album fabulously with a duet on the vocals and some soaring guitar. This one is definetely a grower, but by the end you'll be chanting '... At the Videotheque'. My apetite has been whetted...
The biggest single from the album is more restrained than the opener. Lush production, epic drums and a guitar riff to die for are the key ingredients here. NINA picks up lead vocal duties. I've been lucky enough do a remix of this and have to say it's hard to improve on perfection.
Similar to Causeway only in that the production is also slightly more stripped down which allows the song to really breathe. The highlight is the vocal 'Whoa ohh Whoa ohh' riff and Ricky's and NINA's harmonies on the Chorus.
Heavenly vocals and arpeggiated synths open this one but it then takes a darker turn with a full-on rock chorus. The contrast between verse and chorus is maybe a little too severe for some.
A slightly sinister introduction and a nice little breakbeat combine to be make this a slightly different offering from the others. Although, it shys away from delivering the full blown chorus it deserves.
NINA takes the lead on 'Gold Heart' and pulls us into what is the possibly the most catchy chorus on the album (and in fact I've heard for some time). Truly spine-tingling stuff especially when Ricky's vocals begin to harmonise.
My favourite part of the song is the little understated stereo guitar riff before the chorus. I also love how this song develops into a rock cresendo towards the end. An unexpected but very welcome twist.
Big drums alternate with piano and fighting-talk lyrics deliver a big punch. A sing-a-long chorus bring this one home.
This faster tempo closer has essence of Donna Summer's 'I Feel Love' dancefloor classic. The extended length allow some artistic freedom towards the end and the synths are really let loose. This one feels like a 12" extended mix and clocks in at 6:38. What a way to end a finish up!
There's going to be obvious comparisons mentioned I'm sure between Kim and NINA styles and that's a big compliment. Yes, the production is purposely rooted firmly in the 80s, but the songs are crafted and catchy as hell - so what's not to love about this record?!
Nina & Ricky Wilde Contact Details:
NINA Twitter: @ILOVENINAMUSIC
Ricky Twitter: @Wildericky
Album Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3XJgDezQc8v67VolopnBt1?si=IggfVyVJTu6roRYUAufulg
Album Bandcamp: SCALA HEARTS | NINA & Ricky Wilde | NewRetroWave (bandcamp.com)
NINA Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5zLis4yrXwIFGKX7ZKZd12?si=ey2eVv9AStOMKs3Gb2EMGg
Ricky Wilde Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ZCBHE5iQcL1itMDZHR6OR?si=MEEd7rZYTBKxu5DgBfBDTA
NINA Website: https://www.iloveninamusic.com/
Ricky Website: https://kimwilde.com/
