The cool evolution of Carlos Wilde.
Wilde’s smooth new jazz emerges from punk and rock.
If ever there was an unsung hero in this fickle music business of ours, it’s surely the rock guitarist, songwriting and production prodigy who is Carlos Wilde.
I’ve been promoting Carlos’s music for some ten years and, each time I do, the feedback from the public has always been phenomenal. Fans from around the world just love his work which until now has been mainly indie rock, rock-blues and punk.
But, says Carlos: “It was time for a change. I’ve always loved experimenting with music, but after a lifetime of recording rock I’ve recently been drawn to the chilled-out sounds of smooth jazz.
“People have often told me how my voice and delivery suit music’s softer side as well as the rockier stuff, so I thought: why not give it a go?”
The result is a new EP of cool jazz entitled, ‘The Unsung Hero’.
This is a record where Carlos Wilde’s production and music programming skills come to the fore. “Every backing track on ‘The Unsung Hero’ features studio musicians’ recordings manipulated with programmed drums, loops and, at times, samples.
“As part of the production, I did quite a bit of editing, including cutting, trimming, volume balancing, time alignment, adding effects and shaping the overall sound.”
‘The Unsung Hero’ features four great tracks: ‘Blue’, ‘Take What You Want From Me’, ‘Whole Again’ and ‘Without Living Today’.
The EP’s title, Carlos says, “is dedicated to all those quiet, selfless people who support others while dealing with their own challenges. Yet they never expect anything in return. One such a person is my best friend who encouraged me to take this musical leap and try something different. The title felt fitting, especially regarding my friend.”
He goes on to explain the thinking and inspiration behind each of the four new tracks.
Blue is built around the idea of emotion, seeing it as an ocean: deep, beautiful, sometimes overwhelming but always shifting. It’s about longing and memory, how certain feelings stay with you no matter how much time passes. The “blue side” is that emotional state where the writer feels everything — a myriad of sensations.
‘Blue’ is also a song about the emotional pull someone can have over you. Smooth jazz – moody, flowing, intimate – felt like the right space for this.
Take What You Want From Me is about loving someone who’s slipping away emotionally and feeling powerless to stop it. There’s a lot of pain and frustration in the lyrics, but also a deep willingness to give whatever it takes to save that connection.
‘Take What You Want From Me’ touches on themes of emotional distance, silence, and the desperate hope to reach someone before they fall too far. The smooth jazz backdrop gives it a moody, atmospheric feel, like you’re floating in that space between holding on and letting go.
‘The Unsung Hero’ EP cover, hand-drawn by Carlos. “The girl represents the person the EP is dedicated to,” he says. “The flower is her prize, the gold medal, if you will. And the Leaning Tower of Pisa symbolises her holding everything together and keeping it from falling.”
Whole Again is about reaching out from a place of emotional collapse: feeling lost, broken, and desperate for connection. ‘Whole Again’ is a plea for love not just as comfort, but as something lifesaving.
The lyrics reflect someone trying to rebuild their lives after being shattered, holding onto the hope that the right person can help them feel complete again. The smooth jazz setting brings softness and space to the emotion. It’s tender, reflective, and quietly powerful.
Without Living Today is about refusing to let life pass you by, even when it’s uncertain, messy, or tough. It speaks to that inner desire to stay present, strong, and find meaning in the now, no matter what’s changing around you.
‘Without Living Today’ has a more grounded, almost philosophical tone compared to the other tracks. It’s less about heartbreak, more about waking up and choosing to really live. The smooth jazz vibe gives it a steady, soulful pulse that mirrors that determination.
Below are links to Carlos’s YouTube and Bandcamp channels:
https://www.youtube.com/c/carloswilde
For those who don’t know, who is Carlos Wilde?
A rock guitar, songwriting and production prodigy living in Galicia in northwestern Spain, where he teaches English language and tutors English teachers, Carlos Wilde did his time playing in rock bands while based in Ireland. He then paid his dues, touring solo across Europe, performing live in France, Ireland, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain, where he settled.
For more about Carlos, check the posts below.
Has Carlos Wilde gone punk?
Rock’s latest Wilde one.
Great write-up for a super talented musician and singer!
Much appreciated, Tony. Many thanks for your feedback.
Thanks a lot, Tony!
Hi Paul,
I just wanted to say a big thanks for the wonderful write-up on The Unsung Hero — you really captured the essence of what I was aiming for. Your support over the years has meant a lot to me, and I’m grateful you’ve stuck with me through the shifts and sounds.
The way you described the tracks and the story behind them was spot-on — it’s always a bit nerve-wracking putting something different out there, but you made it feel understood and appreciated.
Hope we can catch up soon, and thanks again for being such a generous champion of my music.
All the best!
CW
You’re most welcome, Carlos. Your music makes it a pleasure.
Carlos always had alot of different influences this is great wrte upn
Many thanks, Vic. Your feedback is much appreciated.
Hi Vic! Appreciate the visit and the kind words!
Excellent article Carlos. Music made from your heart and soul!
Indeed, Saun. Such positive feedback much appreciated.
Thank you, Saun!
Just checking through the comments, Carlos, and spotted this. You’re very welcome, as always.
I’ve listened to Carlos Wilde’s music for many years. He is a prolific songwriter and comes out with songs that stimulate your imagination!
Spot on Del. Thanks for your feedback.
Thank you so much for the support over the years. It means a lot to know that the music sparks your imagination. That’s what it’s all about for me.
This is a well-deserved recognition of a musician who has spanned the decades and continues to create truly original music. I love the write-up!
Thank you kindly Angela. Top comment. And thanks for your feedback.
Really grateful for your kind words! It’s been quite a journey, and I’m thankful to still be creating and sharing music that connects. Big thanks also for enjoying the write-up—it was a special one for me.
Hi Angela! Really grateful for your kind words! It’s been quite a journey, and I’m thankful to still be creating and sharing music that connects. Big thanks also for enjoying the write-up—it was a special one for me.
Carlos is a great independent artist and a great person
Totally agree, Marios. Thanks for the feedback.
Hi Marios! That’s incredibly generous of you to say—thank you!
Hi Marios! That’s incredibly generous of you to say—thank you! Being an independent artist has its ups and downs, but support like yours makes it all worth it.
Nice writing, Carlos Wilde certainly deserves all recognition for his amazing work!
Carlos does indeed deserve more recognition. Many thanks for the feedback, Hannibal.
That’s so kind of you to say. Grateful to be able to share this journey with people like you!
Hi Hannibal! I really appreciate that—thank you! I put a lot of heart into my work, so to see it acknowledged like this is both humbling and motivating.
Hi Paul
I’ve known Carlos for some time and this 4 track release shows another side to Carlos and a welcome addition to his cannon of work. Of the four, “Without living today” is my favourite
Well done
Many thanks, Andrew. Great praise coming from an awarded contemporary musician such as yourself.
Big thanks for the kind words, Andrew — helps keep the creativity flowing!
Carlos Widle is a fantastic musician and a wonderful songwriter. Thank you for your great review.
Thank you for your great feedback, Robert. Much appreciated.
Appreciate the continued support, Bob! All the best!
I’ve enjoyed music my entire lifetime. Consider myself a “radio junky” and a late life learner as an “artist”. I have enjoyed the music of Carlos Wilde for several years, from smooth jazz to “Drama Queens and Drama Kings” (more recently). If you have not had the pleasure, you’ll want to give Carlos Wilde a listen. Carlos is an amazing artist!!!
Spot on, Gary. Wise words. Thanks for your great feedback.
Hi Gary! So glad my music resonates with you. Thanks for listening and sharing the energy!
Carlos music is a cool blend of his easy going vocals, lyrics that keep you engaged and music that carries you along on a great sonic ride. He’s a class act and nice fellow too!
Good stuff, Bill. Feedback much appreciated.
That means a lot, Bill — every comment keeps this journey alive.
Carlos is a great song writer. A great variety of styles can be found on his reverbnation music page.His is a first class musician and he has an ear for writing hit tunes. If you don’t believe me stop by and check him out now !
I believe you, Hilrant. Many thanks for your feedback.
Very, very nice!! Carlos is an amazing person, musician and songwriter! Enjoyed it!
Cheers, Sean. Comment much appreciated.
Glad you enjoyed it, Sean. Thanks for your feedback.
Carlos is a great talent and his music is very good!
Indeed Carlos is, David, as is his music. Thanks for your feedback.
Carlos has always struck me as one of those rare artists who never stops evolving — fearless in sound, honest in delivery, and endlessly creative. This new direction into smooth jazz doesn’t surprise me; it feels like a natural progression for someone with his depth and instinct. “The Unsung Hero” isn’t just great music, it’s a reflection of a lifetime spent mastering craft and emotion. Well deserved recognition, Carlos.
— Steven K. Williams (Swilly)
You’re spot on in your summation, Steven. Your feedback is much appreciated.
Love the work that Carlos does. He seamlessly crosses over genres and give us something meaningful. Keep ’em coming, Carlos.
Many thanks for your comment, Dave.
Nice post Paul! Hey Carlos … Way to step out of your rockin’ comfort zone to experience the jazz vibe.
Many thanks, Gary. Your feedback is much appreciated.
Carlos has a great talent and it is great to see that others are showing their appreciation .
So glad you think so, Giles. Thanks indeed for your feedback.
Carlos,
Congratulations, we are ecstatic for you, and look forward to what the future holds for you!
All the very best from The Splitz / Milwaukee WI
Many thanks for your feedback, John.
Such an awesome write up on Carlos Wilde and his new EP The Unsung Hero. He is a talented musician/ songwriter… I can relate to all his music. My favorite of this new EP is Whole Again! His music makes me smile. Thanks for sharing this,, Paul!
You’re very welcome, Joanne. Many thanks for your great feedback.
This is a great review Paul thanks so much for sharing. I’m always more impressed with artists when they write, sing, and even play their own music. Carlos fits the bill for this very well. With well written cool lyrics and music, his poetic ,punchy reflection on life, is very refreshing. Thanks for the opportunity to share too. Many Thanks and all the very best
Many thanks for your kind words, Catriona. You are most welcome and all the very best to you, too. Great feedback.
Carlos has taken another direction of sound in music, delivering poetic voice to new music. ‘The Unsung Hero’ speaks musically with thoughtful ease and emotive states – reflected in the flow of each song’s instrumentation. Fine lines build character throughout. Like sitting in a room and having a conversation with Carlos over a cup of java, this review provides further dimension and meaning to the latest shift taken in his growing repertoire. There’s everything to like!
Terrific analysis, Hverheij. Many thanks for your feedback.
I’ve been following Carlos Wilde for years now, on Facebook as well as Twitter (X). He is an exceptionally talented artist whose music reflects the changing times. I wish him the best always, and can’t wait to hear his newest music once again.
Good stuff, Judy. Thanks for your great feedback.
Great write-up Paul for Carlos and his music – a wonderfully talented and inspiring song- writer and musician. Best Wishes!
Many thanks, Kanaka. Best wishes to you, too.
An excellent tribute honoring a phenomenal artist and song-writer! Carlos Wilde’s new music is awesome! Well done, Paul!
Thank you kindly, K.C. Your feedback is much appreciated.
Carlos is an amazing musician/person. I urge you all to listen to his songs. You will enjoy his talented songs.
Ditto, Vince.
I don’t know Carlos personally, but through his music, I feel like I know him personally… I like the way his songs describe things and how he plays them. Keep up the good work, and maybe we’ll meet someday… 😉 Of course, Paul Merry also describes him perfectly, hitting exactly the right note…
Thank you for the bit about hitting the right note, Mathias, and for your great feedback.
Awesome, Carlos!
Creative & Cutting Edge ✌️♥️
Nice one, Bubsy. Thanks for your feedback.
Carlos is a great talented musician. I have always enjoyed listening to his music. 🎶
Indeed, Brooklyn. Love your comment.
Carlos is a very professional musician. I like his songs very much. Keep it up, Carlos.
Indeed he is, SM. Thanks for your comment.
Carlos and I thank you for your feedback S-M. Much appreciated.
Carlos is a great songwriter and I totally respect him as an artist.
He’ll be pleased to hear that Ray. Thanks indeed for your feedback.
Job well done
Indeed, Frankie. Thanks for your comment.
Carlos and I thank you for the feedback Frankie.
Carlos is a multi-talented artist who I’ve admired for years!
Whether it’s rock or punk he always delivers with his songwriting and playing.
I’ve listened to his new Jazz EP “The Unsung Hero” many times and must say that it’s truly amazing and is quite the emotional experience.
With his new EP, Carlos has proven to be a diverse artist with exceptional talent that knows no bounds.
Couldn’t have put it any better, Rod. Thanks for your feedback.
Great stuff, Rod, and thanks again for such positive feedback.
Thank.you so much Paul for the wonderful story about a truly wonderful person I’m super proud to call a friend, Carlos Wilde. He has a truly amazing voice and his music is very peaceful and relaxing to listen to, something I always look forward to!!
Thanks for your thanks, Angie. You’re very welcome. I totally agree with everything you’ve just written.
I really loved listening to Carlo’s new EP, The Unsung Hero, and your review, Paul, was such a great read. And I couldn’t agree more. Carlos’s shift from rock to smooth jazz feels so genuine and inspired. Bravo!
So pleased you liked the review, Pan Dora, and loved listening to The Unsung Hero. Many thanks for your feedback.
So well deserved paper about my friend Carlos Wilde ! a great composer , with a high level of human and artistic values.
Many thanks for your feedback, Franky. Good stuff.
Absolutely nailed it. For as long as I’ve known Carlos I’ve always wondered what else he could pull out of the hat. This is a real Blues feel and shows just how deep a song writer Carlos is. I first heard Carlos about 30 years ago and the range of his abilities was obvious back then. Delighted you are trying Blues Carlos. Thank you Paul for helping to spread the word on Carlos’ talent.
My pleasure, John. Great to hear you’ve been a Carlos fan for so long. Appreciate your feedback.
What a great EP review – love the album art! Congrats on the EP, Carlos!
Ditto my previous reply Liz.
What a great EP review – love the album art! Congratulations on the new release and the experimentation with a different style, Carlos
Many thanks for your EP review approval Liz. Glad to hear you like the album cover (Carlos will be pleased) and new style. Appreciate your feedback.
What a great write-up on behalf of Carlos Wilde, Paul G. Merry! His music & talent is impressive, indeed! I have been honored to share his music for many years, as well! His Jazzy, Soulful, Style has delighted me many times! My favorites are “A Story” & “The Sound of Flowers!” His Music From His Unsung Hero” Ep is delighful, as well! “Take What You Want From Me,” is lovely, too! Enjoyed the sweet sound of the sax & the depth of emotion!
What a great write-up on behalf of Carlos Wilde, Paul G. Merry! His music & talent is impressive, indeed! I have been honored to share his music for many years, as well! His Jazzy, Soulful, Style has delighted me many times! My favorites are “A Story” & “The Sound of Flowers!” His Music From His Unsung Hero” Ep is delighful, as well! “Take What You Want From Me,” is lovely, too! Enjoyed the sweet sound of the sax & the depth of emotion!
Enjoying “Blue,” As We Speak, Carlos! Exquisite Work, Sweet Friend! Love, Love, Love! You Have A Wonderful Way of Pulling Your Listener In! Great Job, My Friend! Thanks for Sharing! Hello & Hugs & Love From Tampa Bay! xxs<3<3:)
Thanks again, Debi. And regards to Tampa Bay from Melbourne, Australia.
What a great write-up on behalf of Carlos Wilde, Paul G. Merry! His music & talent is impressive, indeed! I have been honored to share his music for many years, as well! His Jazzy, Soulful, Style has delighted me many times! My favorites are “A Story” & “The Sound of Flowers!” His Music From His Unsung Hero” Ep is delighful, as well! “Take What You Want From Me,” is lovely, too! And, “Blue” is simply Exquisite! Enjoyed the sweet sound of the sax & the depth of emotion on both!!!
Many thanks for the compliment, Debi. You sound like a Carlos fan from way back. Delighted to hear you like his new cool jazz style. Thanks for the feedback.
Great stuff, Debi. I’m sure I’ve replied to this but if not, many thanks for such great feedback.
I’m glad to see that Carlos is getting some well-deserved recognition. It’s always a pleasure to listen to his music. Well done, Carlos!
Thanks for your feedback, Elizabeth. Go to paulmerryblues.com and type Carlos Wilde into search. You’ll find more well-deserved recognition for Carlos on the links below Carlos’ latest post at paulmerryblues.com
Hi Carlos, it’s a great pleasure for me to listen to music that offers solace from the problems of everyday life. You give us an escape into wonderful music that doesn’t divide but unites people. This is something we all desperately need right now. I wish you continued success, wonderful compositions, and many friends. Keep it up.
What a nice comment, Ewa. Many thanks and much appreciated.
I have been a fan of Carlos for many years now. And he just keeps getting better. His songs will often pop up and play in my head when i least suspect it. He is a master at writing great songs and killer hooks. Nice to see him getting the recognition he deserves..
Great stuff, Billy. Many thanks for such positive feedback.
Big Congratulations on your achievements Carlos! Well deserved! Another “Top Shelf” performance! You have a wonderful gift my friend which deserves recognition! Honored to know and have your friendship! :::—-( o )
Many thanks for the feedback, Ed.
I thought I’d already replied but, if not, thanks for your feedback, Ed.
Love Carlos! I always look forward to hearing his latest music. I love the fact that his genre reaches many audiences and his talent speaks volumes. Hoping he comes to America someday, I know he would be welcomed. Stay awesome Carlos!
Great positive feedback, Deborah. Carlos and I extend many thanks for your comment
This is a great article about my talented friend Carlos. I follow him on YouTube and always enjoy the songs he uploads.
Glad you enjoyed the article, Alfons. Feedback greatly appreciated.