Portland’s beloved indie duo, Wonderly — comprising Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk — unveils the video for “Plaid Pantry,” a humorously dark single from their forthcoming album, Wolves, set to released on November 1. The 11-track album, recorded at Brunberg’s farm studio outside of Portland, delves into the dual nature of human experiences, from lighthearted mischief to soul-searching depth.
The “Plaid Pantry” video, premiering today on GLIDE MAGAZINE, brings to life the tale of a night-shift clerk at a Portland convenience store, portraying a person caught between ethical boundaries and relatable impulses. “We wanted to create a character with a foot in both worlds,” explains Brunberg. “In folklore, they say there are two wolves inside each of us — one dark, one light. This character is a modern take on that duality, a blend of sympathy and transgression.”
The quirky video features Portland punk icon Toody Cole (Dead Moon), who allowed the filming at her nearby bodega after the official Plaid Pantry declined access. Directed by local filmmakers Tom Grissom and James Westby, the video captures Wonderly’s unique brand of storytelling, backed by their immersive arrangements and harmonies.
“Late-night convenience stores are a world of their own,” Brunberg says. “We have deep empathy for clerks dealing with the mix of humanity that wanders in — stoners, night owls, mental health crises, and the occasional candy heist.”
Wonderly, deeply woven into Portland’s music scene — Brunberg co-owns the popular Mississippi Studios, while Landsverk heads the interactive community event Low Bar Chorale — has long influenced the cultural fabric of the Pacific Northwest. Known for their indie film soundtracks and podcast themes, including The New York Times’ The Daily and Cheryl Strayed’s Dear Sugar, they blend harmony with an array of styles from Americana to symphonic pop. Over three decades, they’ve collaborated with icons like Smokey Robinson and Northwest favorites like Laura Veirs.
Wolves is available in physical formats and across streaming platforms Now. Celebrate with Wonderly at their album release party:
UPCOMING TOUR DATES:
- November 9, 2024 - Freight & Salvage, Berkeley, CA (Opening for Box Set)
Tracklisting for Wolves:
It Was Written That Way
Wall of China
No One Has a Name
New Haven
My Damn Self
Starfucker
Never Go Back There Again
Plaid Pantry
Dancin' with the Devil
A World So Kind
Words to Say Goodbye
Watch "Plaid Pantry" on YouTube HERE
