Track List

A1 Theme I [6.05] A2 Theme II [ 4.41]

B1 Awakening [2.40] B2 Theme II (Slhhmyr Remix) [4.37]

Wonderkid EP is the music to the film Wonderkid directed by Rhys Chapman a film following the inner struggle of a gay footballer and is part of a larger campaign looking to raise awareness about a lack of openly gay male professional footballers within the game. Brain Rays (aka Benjamin Hudson) sparse but intricate electronic score melds together 2-step/Techno rhythms with dreamy ambient tones and haunting vocals. The processed vocal recordings resist identification and reflect the conflict and turmoil at the heart of the film, while heavy kick drums, prepared piano recordings and double bass clunks provide the rhythmical backdrop.

Theme I is an ambient-leaning, electronic piece that highlights Wonderkid’s isolation and detachment through simple repeated motifs. Brain Rays used old vocal recordings, which have been pitched and stretched to give the tracks a troubled, emotive feel.

Theme II has more drive and pace to work with the change in tone for the second half of the film. The percussion is, for the most-part, build out of sounds Brain Rays created by hitting a double bass and pitching the sounds as well as some prepared piano (placing cutlery on the strings).

Awakening continues the themes we have established in the score. It still has ambient-leanings and feels reflective but is much more positive with a gentle pulse propelling us forward. The insular uncertain tones of Theme I have been replaced with open, warmer synths. Our protagonist is happy and going on to great things at Wembley.

The soundtrack themes are accompanied by a remix from ‘ shadowy' Bizarre Rituals affiliate Slhhmyr (pronounced Sluh-meer) who creates a haunting Trap remix of Theme II. The track drifts between sharp beats and ambient pads creating what sounds like a lush but disorientating dream-sequence.