With Ghosts take a very English approach to the American-fuelled Pop-Punk genre. The band hails from Swindon and have just released their debut EP ‘Endings’. The production on the record, by Lee Batiuk, who most notably produced Deaf Havana’s latest record, is second-to-none and displays every aspect of the band perfectly. Before even finding out about Batiuk’s work on this EP, the influences were recognisable. Much of the lead guitar, especially on ‘Bury Me’ is reminiscent of Deaf Havana.
‘Bury Me’ is the highlight of the record, it’s uplifting, with a full chorus, and well thought through instrumental intricacies. The track reflects other English Rock bands like Kids in Glass Houses, drawing elements from Pop-Punk and Pop Rock and creating a very smooth and listenable anthem.
The highlight of With Ghosts’ offering to this saturated Pop-Punk / Rock scene comes from frontman Nathan Gregory’s vocals, which create a refreshingly classic tone, far removed from the current modern day habit of strained and shouting vocals. Gregory’s English accent helps to distinguish and elevate the band, as it shows they are not afraid to stand out from the crowd or blend in to stereotypical American vocal techniques. Again, this English feel has been accentuated by the involvement of Batiuk who has produced similar sounding bands previously.
Unfortunately, the single and video released from ‘Endings’ does not do the band justice, as the video itself feels amateur-ish and lacks distinction from other videos. The lead guitar on track ‘Sorry I’m Not Sorry’ is quite boring at times and lacks the energy that would lift the band to higher plains. However, on listening to the EP in full, one can hear the elements which have enabled With Ghosts to recently earn support slots with genre heavyweights Don Broco and Moose Blood, such as strong choruses and solid song writing.
This EP is a great introduction to the band, who have room to grow and have given themselves enough leverage to really work on differentiating their sound before their next record. There are aspects of ‘Endings’ which really shine through, such as the vocals and the production, creating a new but refreshingly classic English Pop Rock record.
ALEX HALL