Wet Leg, the U.K. indie rock sensation, burst onto the music scene in 2021, captivating audiences with their sharp wit and infectious sound. Hailing from the Isle of Man, this dynamic duo of Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers quickly transitioned from a casual pastime into global superstars, thanks to their clever singles, “Wet Leg” and “Chaise Longue.” Their music features a blend of snappy guitars and hilarious one-liners that critique the absurdity of relationships, encapsulated in memorable lines like, “Baby, do you wanna come home with me?/I got Buffalo ’66 on DVD.”
What began as a lighthearted endeavor to combat post-college ennui has transformed into a remarkable career. Teasdale and Chambers humorously recount their inspiration for forming a band while riding a Ferris wheel. Their debut album, surprisingly successful even in the U.S.A., a territory where many British bands struggle, earned them accolades, including a couple of Grammys. This achievement is particularly impressive given the provocative themes of their most popular tracks, which tackle topics such as vehicular antics and backstage escapades.
Wet Leg's sophomore album, titled Moisturizer, showcases their evolution as artists who are embracing a more carefree lifestyle and exploring deeper themes. If anyone expected a typical sophomore slump, they were mistaken. The band's new sound is amplified with a punchy drum mix, reflecting their experiences in edgy rock clubs. Tracks like “Mangetout” emerge as quintessential dance-punk anthems, radiating energy and confidence. Teasdale delivers a modern pick-up line, declaring, “You think I’m pretty/You think I’m pretty cool/You wanna fuck me?/I know — most people do,” culminating in a chant of “Get lost forever!”
Moisturizer kicks off with “CPR,” where Teasdale transforms lust into a medical emergency, insisting on mouth-to-mouth resuscitation against a backdrop of ambulance-like synth sounds. Since the release of their debut album, Teasdale has also explored new dimensions in her personal life, finding herself in a queer relationship for the first time. However, the humor remains intact, with each song humorously detailing the rollercoaster of modern romance.
Having toured alongside Harry Styles, who performed an impressive rendition of “Wet Dream” on the BBC, Wet Leg continues to embrace their youthful, irreverent charm. They now perform as a full-fledged five-piece band, incorporating their live group and producer/keyboardist Dan Carey. Their sound draws inspiration from classic Britpop legends like Elastica and Franz Ferdinand, infused with a punk attitude reminiscent of Blondie.
Tracks like “Catch These Fists” delve into the nightlife scene, addressing themes of clubbing, substance use, and the unwanted advances that come with it. Teasdale's witty lyrics, “He don’t get puss, he get the boot,” reflect a humorous take on her experiences. Meanwhile, “Pillow Talk” presents a rapid-fire New Wave tribute to romantic desire, with cheeky lines like, “Every night I lick my pillow, I wish I was licking you.”
Chambers also shines with lead vocals on tracks like “Don’t Speak” (not the No Doubt hit) and “Pond Song.” The album maintains a lively pace with bangers like “Jennifer’s Body,” “Liquidize,” and “Davina McCall,” while the slower ballad, “11:21,” falls flat compared to their usual style. The emotional landscape of Moisturizer ranges from euphoric crushes to breakup fury, with lines like, “I’ll be your Shakira, whenever, wherever,” and “You are washed-up, irrelevant, and standing in my light.”
Wherever Wet Leg goes, they invite fans to join their wild journey. Their unique blend of humor, punk attitude, and infectious sound makes them a band worth following. With their captivating live performances and relatable lyrics, Wet Leg is set to continue their ascent in the music world, ensuring that every new release keeps listeners eagerly anticipating what comes next.
