B O A T R O C K by Wisco: Review
Photo Credit: Artist EPK
On January 1, 2025, Wisco (aka Connor McManus) made a bold debut with his first studio album, B O A T R O C K. Entirely self-funded, the album showcases a one-of-a-kind blend of alternative rock, weaving together threads of glam rock, dream pop, and nostalgic '70s psychedelia with a distinctly modern edge.
Connor’s journey to B O A T R O C K wasn’t easy. Graduating from the Los Angeles College of Music (LACM) in March 2020 as the pandemic reshaped the world, the music industry offered few opportunities. Without live gigs, internships, or showcases, Connor faced a daunting reality. Rather than giving in, he began a four-year journey of perseverance, working odd jobs to finance his dream while managing songwriting, arranging, recording, producing, and promoting entirely on his own.
The foundation of B O A T R O C K was laid during six intense days at The Exchange Recording Complex in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This storied studio, owned by Joey Puerta of Ambrosia and Bruce Hornsby fame, has hosted legends like David Bowie. Connor, joined by a six-piece band of collaborators, recorded individual tracks under the skillful engineering of Kevin Arndt. High school friends also pitched in to shape the sound, and the band even stayed at Connor’s home during the sessions, recording mostly in the evenings.
Yet, those six days were just the beginning. Over the next three years, Connor teamed up with Josue Diaz of Astral Wave Studio to mix and refine the tracks, using earnings from his hospitality job to fund the process. Together, they shaped the album’s unique sound, all while Connor developed the marketing strategy, including media content, videos, and promotional materials.
Photo Credit: Artist EPK
B O A T R O C K is a sonic journey that defies easy categorization. Each track brings its own flavor. The opening track, Connor McManus, starts with moody soundscapes and ends with psychedelic harmonies and medieval strings. Princess channels Southern rock influences reminiscent of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
A glam rock and dream pop vibe runs throughout the album, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh listening experience. Standout track Smooth Sailing draws comparisons to Vampire Weekend with its infectious rhythm and uplifting energy. The closing track, NEW swimming pool, is a euphoric, upbeat anthem that leaves listeners on a high note.
B O A T R O C K isn’t just an album—it’s a testament to Connor’s unwavering determination and creative vision. From hustling for studio time to collaborating with friends and navigating the complexities of marketing, Wisco has proven what’s possible with grit and passion.
With this ambitious debut, Connor McManus announces himself as a fearless new voice in alternative rock, blending the old and new into a sound that’s unmistakably his own. For fans of eclectic, genre-defying music, B O A T R O C K is not just an album—it’s an experience.
B O A T R O C K is out now on all major streaming platforms
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Listen to Wisco and other similar artists on our Spotify Playlist ‘New Music Spotlight - Indie & Alternative’
