The introduction of yet another artist who has amassed fame through YouTube doesn’t always ignite enthusiasm from music lovers. However it was this recipe of video and song that culminated in Lewis Watson – a 20 year old Oxford native – signing to Warner Brothers Records in 2012. The content that YouTube musicians produce can be contentious to say the least, and often propels them into the realms of glorified pop. ‘The Wild” is Watson’s third EP, and illustrates progressive leaps from his début ‘It’s Got Four Sad Songs On It BTW’, bearing indie-pop marred with elements of folk.

A soft chorus introduces the optimistic Into The Wild, its poetic nature is paired with acoustic strings, along with gentle tambourine and percussion. It’s a gradual introduction but immediately illustrates a more flirtatious and generous arrangement of sounds than just an acoustic guitar which Watson previously favoured. However you get the feeling he was vying for something anthemic, but this decadent delicacy was never going to deliver such a feast.

It Could Be Better exhibits an initial greeting of backing vocals but quickly morphs into the traditional acoustic output associated with Watson. It rings in a different parallel however and is an altogether more sombre lament delivered with peerless vocals. It mirrors similarities to Small Bump by Ed Sheeran by effectiveness in sheer simplicity and inevitable comparisons will ensue between Watson and Sheeran. Little Darling again illustrates his frailty and vulnerability through storytelling, it’s an emotive punch contrasted with measured pace and gentle tones that glide with ease.

 Hold On sees a darker arrangement and pairs perfectly with the lyrics and the sentiment it echoes. It’s not a track that you would associate with such a record. It is a unique and quaint take on the SBTRKT tune. While it’s unlikely to kindle a rapture of accolade, it is the stand out track on ‘The Wild EP’ and amalgamates acoustic guitar and shrilling percussion, while still maintaining supreme vocal ability, serene in its execution. It shouldn’t work, attempting to toy with a festival favourite from such a polar opposite genre. But it does, and is the perfect conclusive track showcasing his range and endeavours in music.