B-Side Guys

Wyatt James handles every element himself—composing, arranging, producing—and that total control defines Horsewreck’s approach. “Only Words,” the second single from his upcoming debut full-length, demonstrates what happens when someone takes the long approach to getting music exactly how they want it. The Portland artist bends genres while maintaining emo undertones, creating something that appeals to new listeners while making older emo fans feel at home with a twist on early 2000s nostalgia.

The track draws heavily from Say Anything and Taking Back Sunday’s influence while pushing into experimental territory that distinguishes it from straight nostalgia play. James’ commitment to self-production means the sounds and textures reflect his specific vision without compromise—no studio pressure to smooth edges or make radio-friendly concessions. That independence shows in the willingness to experiment within pop-punk and emo frameworks, finding room for innovation in a genre often accused of stagnation.

Currently, Horsewreck’s unreleased full-length is being mixed by Brad Wood, the Los Angeles-based mixer and producer who’s a legend in the genre. That collaboration represents an interesting balance: James maintains creative control through writing and production, but brings in Wood’s expertise for mixing—recognizing where outside perspective adds value without surrendering the core vision. It’s the approach of someone confident in their work but smart enough to know when specialist knowledge matters.

At 25, James represents a generation that grew up with emo’s peak years in the rearview but close enough to understand what made it resonate. The goal isn’t replication but evolution—pioneering new perspectives while honoring what drew people to the genre originally. “Only Words” puts in the love, sweat, and tears James mentions, resulting in work that feels labored over in the best sense: intentional, considered, crafted with care.

Currently unsigned but actively pursuing a record deal to fund the next album, Horsewreck positions itself as ready to redefine and raise genre standards. For a self-produced project built on one person’s complete vision, “Only Words” proves that pop-punk’s comeback might come from artists willing to do everything themselves until the industry catches up.