Stranger Things Star Finn Wolfhard Unveils Debut Solo Album ‘Happy Birthday’ to Critical Acclaim

Actor, director, and musician Finn Wolfhard, widely recognized for his prominent role in the acclaimed series Stranger Things and his directorial debut Hell of a Summer, has ventured further into his musical career with the release of his first solo album, titled “Happy Birthday”. The album, which became available on June 10, 2025, has quickly garnered attention, including a review published in the esteemed Paste Magazine by critic Andy Crump.

A New Chapter in Music

Wolfhard is no stranger to the music scene, having previously fronted the band Calpurnia and served as one half of the duo The Aubreys. “Happy Birthday” marks a significant milestone as his inaugural solo endeavor, allowing him a more personal expression of his artistic vision. The nine-track album is characterized by its distinct sound, described by Crump as a blend of lo-fi indie rock and a garage band aesthetic.

The genesis of “Happy Birthday” reportedly stems from a prolific period of songwriting. According to reports, Wolfhard set an ambitious personal goal to write 50 songs by the close of 2022. The material that ultimately comprises the album’s structure was curated from this extensive body of work, suggesting a deeply personal and selective process in shaping the final tracklist.

Exploring the Sound and Influences

The songwriting on “Happy Birthday” is noted for its sentimental, laid-back, and instinctive approach. This style contributes to the album’s overall feel, creating an atmosphere that is both introspective and accessible. The influences cited in connection with the album point to a diverse range of iconic bands that have shaped various eras of rock music.

Apparent influences include the raw energy and grunge sensibilities of Nirvana, the melodic punk rock of Descendants and Green Day, and the timeless pop craftsmanship of The Beatles. This combination suggests an album that navigates between moments of raucous energy and more nuanced, melodic passages, all filtered through a contemporary lo-fi lens.

Critical Reception from Paste Magazine

In his review for Paste Magazine, Andy Crump offered a favorable perspective on “Happy Birthday”. Crump characterized the album as easygoing and enjoyable, highlighting its listenability. He concluded that the album represents a compelling mix of artistic achievement and simple pleasure.

Crump’s specific phrasing, calling the album a combination of “impressive accomplishment” and “good times,” encapsulates the balance struck within the nine tracks. It suggests that while the album is technically and artistically noteworthy, it doesn’t sacrifice the element of fun and approachability often associated with the indie and garage rock genres it inhabits.

Conclusion

Finn Wolfhard’s debut solo album, “Happy Birthday”, released on June 10, 2025, represents a significant step in his evolving career. Moving beyond his established success in acting and directing, Wolfhard demonstrates his commitment to music with this personal collection of songs. Drawing on a background in indie rock and a reported goal of prolific creation, the album offers a sentimental, instinctive, and enjoyable listening experience, viewed by critics like Andy Crump as both an accomplishment and a source of good times within the lo-fi indie rock landscape.