Ghost House

Departures

BY Josiah HughesPublished Apr 18, 2007

Few so-called "super groups” live up to their hype, but Ghost House have managed to exceed it. Comprised of ex-members of dbs, Operation Makeout, Black Rice, the WPP and Billy the Kid, the band’s personnel represent a solid portion of the last ten years in Vancouver’s independent music scene. Originally released as a limited CD-R in 2005, the record has been re-released on CD and deluxe tri-colour vinyl thanks to Edmonton’s Reluctant Recordings. With their choppy keyboards and hyperactive rhythm section, the Ghost House gang have delivered a record that will stand the test of time. Combining Jesse Gander’s urgent keyboard and vocal attack with Steve Matheson and Allan Boyle’s unrelenting rhythm section, the music complements Gander’s stellar songwriting. Add guest guitar spots from Cadeaux’s Katie Lapi and Secret Mommy’s Andy Dixon and you have a record of instantly classic indie rock that is at once familiar and brand new. From the explosive opening of "Transmit” to the slow build of "Modern Manners,” Departures shows what happens when enough care is put into a recording — every song is perfectly crafted, every note precisely planned. It’s hard to believe this is Ghost House’s first record.

(Reluctant, www.reluctantrecordings.com)
(Reluctant)

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