“Call of the Wild”: Why This Rock Anthem Is a Lost Classic

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Some songs feel like they were born to be timeless – tracks that should have filled arenas and sound-tracked a generation.

Company of Wolves’ “Call of the Wild” is one of those rare gems.

Stream Company of Wolves on Amazon Music*

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Buy Company of Wolves’s debut on Amazon*

Released in 1990 on their self-titled debut album, the song captures a raw, untamed energy that relates with anyone who’s ever craved freedom or adventure. Exactly like Jack London!

It’s an anthem for dreamers and drifters, wrapped in groovy guitar riffs and soulful vocals.

Tie a bandana to your head and hit the trail!

The opening riff sets the tone: bold, melodic, and impossible to ignore. Steve Conte’s guitar work is sharp and dynamic, creating a foundation that drives the track forward.

Kyf Brewer’s voice cuts through—gritty yet soaring.

“Call of the Wild” is more than a rock song; it’s an experience. Listening to it feels like stepping onto a winding highway at dusk, ready to leave everything behind.

For some reason, “there’s a tiny little down in The Bible Belt” is a standout lyric. Simple. Catchy while not being complicated or trying to hint at a hidden meaning.

Yet, despite its undeniable coolness, “Call of the Wild” never became the anthem it was destined to be.

Unless you count how many times I’ve played it on my iPhone.

Timing played a significant role. The rock scene in 1990 was beginning to shift.

The purple scarf and Spandex-drenched glam rock of the ’80s was giving way to grunge’s raw, stripped-down, punk rock-like aesthetic.

Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam were on the horizon, leaving groups like Company of Wolves—who didn’t neatly fit into either trend—in the shadows.

You’d never mistake Company of Wolves for Poison or Warrant. They had a look that transcended the end of the 80s.

When the slew of Seattle bands were beginning to get noticed – Alice in Chains “Man in the Box” made waves on MTV – taste-maker station WSOU was playing Lynch Mob and Spread Eagle right alongside.

But remember – great music doesn’t need to top charts to leave a mark.

“Call of the Wild” is lost classic, waiting to be rediscovered by those willing to seek out music that defies convention.

Or at least just makes them feel good.

Trends come and go. Great hooks last forever.

Thanks to today’s digital platforms, tunes from any area can be promoted to a new generation. Or remind older ones that may have missed them.

The History of Company of Wolves

The story of Company of Wolves begins in the vibrant music scene of late-1980s New York City. Formed by a group of seasoned musicians—Kyf Brewer (vocals), Steve Conte (guitar/vocals), John Conte (bass), and Frankie LaRocka (drums)—the band quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

What made Company of Wolves stand out was their ability to blend influences seamlessly – carrying the swagger of hard rock, the soul of blues, and the storytelling depth of folk.

Unlike many bands of the era, they didn’t rely on flashy gimmicks or overproduced tracks. Instead, they leaned into authenticity, crafting songs that felt raw and real.

Steve Conte’s guitar work became the backbone of their sound, delivering riffs that would have made Keith Richards tilt his head in curiosity. Or Foghat proud.

Kyf Brewer’s vocals added another layer of depth, shifting effortlessly between vulnerable and commanding.

Together, there’s a sound that was equal parts polished and primal.

The Debut Album

In 1990, Company of Wolves released their self-titled debut album.

The record was a masterclass in blending genres, offering something for everyone. From the high-octane energy of “Call of the Wild” to the introspective tones of “The Distance,” the album showcased the band’s versatility and depth.

Critics praised the album, but it struggled to gain traction in a market that was increasingly dominated by emerging grunge bands.

Tracks like the fun and jangly “Hangin’ By a Thread” hinted at the band’s potential for mainstream success, but without the backing of a massive hit single, they were left fighting an uphill battle.

Jilted!” has a certain country-rock fusion.

The Wolves’ Legacy

Though they disbanded after their second album, the members of Company of Wolves continued to make their mark on the music world.

Steve Conte, in particular, became a well-known name, working with legendary acts like the New York Dolls, Michael Monroe (who is on tour in 2025) and solo albums.

“Call of the Wild,” are a reminder of what rock can be – an still is – when you remind the audience.

Why “Call of the Wild” Deserves a Second Chance

Is it really a second chance?

The beauty of music is that it’s never truly lost. Songs like “Call of the Wild” endure – it has the ability to speak to the restless, the dreamers, and those who still secretly want to “rock n’ roll all night,” but may be a little to old to party EVERY day.

If you’ve never heard it, now’s the time.

Pull it up on your favorite streaming service, turn up the volume, and let yourself get swept away.

“Call of the Wild” is a classic – not because it dominated the charts, but because it’s a song that still has the power to shake your booty.

A Wolf Pack of Final Thoughts

Though they disbanded after their second album, the members of Company of Wolves continued to make their mark

Steve Conte, in particular, became a well-known name, working with legendary acts like the New York Dolls, Michael Monroe (on tour in 2025) and continuing a successful solo career.

The Concrete Jangle is a powerhouse.

Kyf Brewer has some nifty releases himself. Check him out on Spotify.

Hitting the shelves (or most likely the import e-tailers based overseas) in 2001, Steryl Spycase* was a welcome return.

The opener “Institution” and the sublimely silly second track “Rocks in Your Head” are definitely worth attention.

The whole album is far from lazy or stale (unlike many paint-by-the-numbers acts from the same era).

Sources:

• New Jersey Stage: “Company of Wolves”

• Discogs: “Company of Wolves Discography”

• Steve Conte Official Website: “About Steve Conte”

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Szul