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Wila Frank, (/wɪlə/ WILLA; born Wilhelmina Frankzerda; April 2, 1998) is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer known for her ethereal and cinematic folk music. Her debut album, Black Cloud, has been lauded for its emotional depth and intricate compositions.

Early life

Wila Frank grew up immersed in music and nature, which heavily influenced her artistic sensibilities. Her upbringing in a rural environment fostered a connection to themes of grief, spirituality, and the natural world, recurring motifs in her music.

Career

Debut Album: Black Cloud

Frank released her debut album, Black Cloud, in 2023. The album explores themes of loss, resilience, and human connection, combining lush instrumentation with poignant lyrics. Tracks such as "Black Cloud" and "Oh, Fate" have been highlighted for their haunting melodies and evocative storytelling.

Style and Influences

Frank's solo work is often described as "cinematic folk," blending traditional acoustic elements with modern production techniques. Her songwriting draws from personal experiences and reflects on universal themes such as grief and renewal. She cites nature as both a spiritual and artistic influence, often describing her creative process as a "religion of nature."

Paper Wings

In addition to her solo work, Frank is one half of the Americana duo Paper Wings. The duo, blends modern and traditional folk influences, and has released multiple albums and been praised for honoring folk traditions while crafting a contemporary sound.

Discography

Solo

• 2023: Black Cloud
• 2024: Agua Verde EP

Paper Wings

• 2017: Paper Wings
• 2019: Clementine
• 2024: Listen to the World Spin

Critical Reception

Wila Frank's debut album, Black Cloud, has garnered attention for its emotional resonance and intricate compositions. NPR featured Frank in a music mix alongside artists Rufus Wainwright and PJ Harvey, describing her work as "ethereal and cinematic," with the title track "Black Cloud" noted for its haunting beauty and depth.

Under the Radar praised the album's storytelling, emphasizing its ability to evoke both intimacy and universality, while Enigma called it "cinematic" and "introspective with scalpel-like precision."

References

1. ^ Campbell, Caleb (May 2, 2023). "Premiere: Wila Frank Shares New Single "Black Cloud"". Under the Radar. Tone Tree Music. Archived from the original on December 21, 2024.
2. ^ Frank, Wila (May 11, 2023). "On Music, Grief, and the Religion of Nature". Talkhouse. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
3. ^ Mosk, Mitch (May 11, 2023). "Cathartic, Cinematic, & Honest: Wila Frank Premieres Her Soul-Stirring Debut Album 'Black Cloud'". Atwood Magazine. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
4. Carey, Christian (June 5, 2023). "Wila Frank – Black Cloud (CD Review)". Sequenza21. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
5. The Autumn Roses (March 9, 2023). "Wila Frank: "Oh, Fate"". The Autumn Roses. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
6. The Daily Music Report (May 3, 2023). "Wila Frank releases 'Black Cloud'". The Daily Music Report. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
7. Ryan, Chris (April 3, 2023). "SEE: Passionate, Ethereal Music — Wila Frank "Tonight"". Audiofuzz. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
8. Teodosio, Abby (February 7, 2023). "Wila Frank Explores Connections On Ghosts & Guitars". Right Chord Music. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
9. Moore, Bobby (May 14, 2019). "Duo Paper Wings Honor the Past While Making Something Modern". No Depression. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
10. Frolish, Andrew (May 1, 2024). "Video: Paper Wings "Mad Thing"". Americana UK. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
11. Bluegrass Unlimited (October 1, 2019). "Paper Wings". Bluegrass Unlimited. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
12. Bouchard, Oliver (April 17, 2023). "Wila Frank - Tonight". Glamglare. Archived from the original on December 22, 2024.
13. Boilen, Bob (May 9, 2023). "New Mix: Rufus Wainwright, PJ Harvey, Rhiannon Giddens, more". NPR. Archived from the original on December 21, 2024.
14. Enigma (March 6, 2023). "Wila Frank Announces Debut LP 'Black Cloud'". Enigma. Archived from the original on March 28, 2023.

• 1998 births
• Living people
• Women folk musicians
• Women folk singers
• American women folk singers
• 21st-century folk musicians
• 21st-century American folk musicians
• American folk guitarists
• American folk musicians
• 21st-century American guitarists
• 21st-century American women singers
• 21st-century American singers
• 21st-century multi-instrumentalists
• American alternative rock musicians
• American sopranos
• American women guitarists
• American multi-instrumentalists
• American rock guitarists
• American rock musicians
• American women singer-songwriters
• American singer-songwriters
• People from Oregon
• Musicians from Oregon
• American women rock singers
• 21st-century women guitarists
• 21st-century American women guitarists