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Ghosts in the City

History

Released: Feb 8, 2008
Label: 24 Hour Service Station
Reviewed by: Pete Crigler

This debut from one of the most talked about new bands of 2008 starts off with an interesting riff from guitarist and vocalist Matt Caron - who sounds a lot like Jim Ward of Sparta - and some really good work on the Moog by keyboardist Scott Ososky on the questionably titled "Oh Shit It's a Heart Attack." The use of both regular keyboards and the Moog are really good at separating this band from others like them. The next song, "BMK & the Valley of Bats," has an excellent performance from Caron who is extremely consistent as a vocalist and performer. This whole record is full of excellent vocals and wonderful musicianship, especially from Ososky and drummer Patrick O'Neal. The interestingly titled "Col. Mustard in the Meth Lab w/ a Sledge Hammer" is almost epic and grandiose in its approach. While some people might want to possibly compare History with Pretty Girls Make Graves, it just can't be seen because the keyboards are insane as hell. All over this record, the keyboards stand out in song after song, which makes the listener want more from each song, which is a good thing to strive for.

The one weak song, another with a strange title, "Hot Dog in a Hula Hoop" tries to keep the energy of the record going but it just falls flat, relying to much on screaming and not enough on singing. Throughout the record, at least with the Moog, one can hear the slight influence of bands like The Rentals on songs like "Far From Being an Obstacle"; the keyboards weave in and out and the backing vocals of keyboardist Melissa Parker help the song attain a new level of excitement.

This record is one of the best debut albums I've heard in a long, long time and all the hype around this band is definitely worth it. One listen to this band and you'll be hooked