The Decemberists release a new song for Wildwood

The Decemberists have released The Better Part of Bravery, their first new song in more than two years. Published October 9, it plays over the closing credits of Wildwood. The LAIKA animated film adapts singer Colin Meloy’s 2011 novel, which was illustrated by Carson Ellis.

Travis Knight directs the adaptation, with an orchestral score by Dario Marianelli. Decca’s official soundtrack pairs the Decemberists song with the instrumental compositions. The digital edition is scheduled for October 23, while the label’s official store separately lists November 20 for the CD release.

Meloy wrote the song specifically for the conclusion of the screen story. The recording features banjo and harmonica. The group’s previous studio album, As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, arrived in 2024. The new track brings the Decemberists’ musical work into the literary world created by their frontman.