[1] Wildlife began as an entity in 2005, when singer/guitarist Povinsky and guitarist Darryl Smith left Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario and moved to Glasgow to form and play in a band.

The group, also comprising Scottish drummer Peter Kelly and Canadian Billy Holmes, spent time travelling, writing songs, recording and playing small venues around Glasgow.

Povinsky moved to Toronto with the intention of continuing Wildlife with childhood friend Graham Plant on guitar, drummer Dwayne Christie and Julia Mensink playing synthesizer.

Wildlife released Strike Hard, Young Diamond 16 November 2010 on the Toronto-based independent label Easy Tiger Music.

wrote, "The five songs are bold, full of angst and to the point, but they're also filled with youthful exuberance and affirming righteousness that will be good for a simple pick-me-up.

"[5] In a favourable review, critic Scott Bryson of Chart suggested that the band's style was like a mix of fellow Canadians Wolf Parade and Born Ruffians.