Wyldest

Wyldest’s fourth album, The Universe Is Loading, out 14th November 2025, is a life-changing record born from personal upheaval and artistic rebirth. The project of London-based singer-songwriter Zoë Mead, it pairs existential reflection with intimate storytelling, revealing the most authentic version of Wyldest yet. Since her 2019 debut Dream Chaos, Mead has explored identity, womanhood, and reinvention across albums like Monthly Friend and Feed The Flowers Nightmares. Growing up working-class in Swindon, she began writing songs at 16, inspired by Cat Power, Joni Mitchell, and Sharon Van Etten. A self-taught producer and multi-instrumentalist, Mead’s drive stems from her parents’ relentless work ethic. Formed in 2016, Wyldest began as a trio to mask Mead’s insecurities, but has always been a solo endeavour. With The Universe Is Loading, co-produced with Luciano Rossi, she embraces vulnerability and transformation. Songs like “After The Ending” confront illness and self-acceptance; “Foolish World” and “Old Flame” explore nature’s resilience and human fragility; while “Kimberley We’re Grown” examines family estrangement. Drawing from dream-pop, darkwave, and cinematic influences, The Universe Is Loading captures an artist reborn—fearless, reflective, and creatively unbound. For Wyldest, the possibilities are endless.