RxGhost : "Scaffolding"

 The first thing that strikes me about this band is the emotive whine of the vocals. As a fan of bands like the Cure and the Smiths a good pout goes a long way with me. Though what is going down on this album woes perhaps more to Dinosaur Jr. The fact is highlighted by the explosive almost grunge-like jangle to the second song. It also carries a syncopated bounce. "Candles" might be the lead single, but it feels deceptive despite being perhaps the most accessible moment, the carefree mood it converts does not seem to be a fair representative of what this band is about. 

The step on the distortion for the more punk-driven bounce of "In the Ocean". When they start to get more introspective, the album loses its momentum. What they are doing on "Eating the Sun Directly" works due to the dynamics that creep in.  "Discomfort" is more listless and distracted in its emoting. The rein things in with "It's A Mitten". I like the dark almost Nirvana-like place they go to on "Sharks". Given how much metal we cover here, the bar when it comes to screaming is pretty high, but he does add more grit and anguish to his voice in a few places on "Nail House" which is effective. 

I do like the fact they are willing to try different moods and sounds within the context of what they do. Some work better than others. The lazy folk sound does not work as well as what I want from these guys as it's the pain that is the most honest. The indie rock amble of "Someone You Never Knew " works pretty well, and is melancholy enough for me while still being melodic. "My Kingdom For a Cloud" continues to find them staying true to who they are sonically. The album closes with "Walk Away" which feels a bit like Soul Asylum. Overall I like what these guys are doing and how they pour their hearts into these songs in a very real way. 

pst371