Saya Gray, quickly, quickly, Aminé, & More Share New Songs For The Movie Version Of Colin Meloy’s Wildwood

LAIKA, the acclaimed stop-motion animation studio, has brought to the screen a cinematic adaptation of Wildwood, a youth novel penned by Colin Meloy, frontman of The Decemberists. Set against a mystical rendition of Portland, the film invites audiences into an enchanting world that expands on Meloy’s original vision.

Coinciding with the film’s release next Friday is an official soundtrack album, featuring an original score by composer Dario Marianelli. This score underpins the movie’s immersive atmosphere and is complemented by a fresh contribution from The Decemberists themselves: "The Better Part Of Bravery," a new track that plays over the film’s end credits.

In tandem with this release, LAIKA has unveiled an additional collection titled The Wildwood Sessions, issued today. This compilation diverges from the primary soundtrack by presenting a vibrant assortment of previously unreleased songs from an eclectic mix of artists, many of whom are rooted in Portland’s rich music scene.

Among the contributors are hip-hop artist Aminé and indie rock band Portugal. The Man, alongside emerging groups like New Constellations and quickly, quickly. The Sessions also highlights new music from Saya Gray and Still Woozy, expanding the film’s auditory landscape beyond the traditional score.

A standout track from quickly, quickly, titled "Anyway," has already garnered attention for its emotive resonance and artistic craftsmanship, reflecting the band’s distinctive sound. Additionally, The Decemberists contribute another new song, "I Want To Be Lost," enriching the album’s narrative ties to the source material.

This dual-release strategy presents audiences with two complementary musical experiences: Marianelli’s composed score paired with The Decemberists’ thematic contributions, and The Wildwood Sessions’ diverse artist roster offering fresh interpretations inspired by Meloy’s imaginative universe.

The inclusion of Portland-based musicians underscores the film’s geographical and cultural setting, reinforcing a sense of place through sonic texture. This approach not only deepens the connection between the film and its locale but also spotlights regional talent on an international platform.

As the film prepares to debut, the simultaneous availability of these albums provides fans and new listeners alike with an opportunity to explore Wildwood’s multifaceted world through sound. Details regarding potential further collaborations or live performances related to the soundtrack remain limited at this time.

Overall, LAIKA’s adaptation of Wildwood is accompanied by a thoughtfully curated musical landscape that bridges original composition and contemporary artist contributions, enriching the story’s fantastical themes and enhancing its emotional depth.