Holiday Ghosts pour so much joy, inspiration in energy in their music that I kinda expected them to burn out quickly. Yet, here we are, eagerly embracing Coat Of Arms, their fifth LP since their 2017 self-titled debut, pleased to find that the Falmouth unit has lost none of its magic touch.
The sonic evolution of Holiday Ghost is palpable. They don’t merely replicate past successes but rather undergo subtle mutations and variations. Their latest record contains quintessential Holiday Ghosts songs like Energy and the amazing Big Congratulations where the band’s trademark staccato dual vocals will warm the heart of new and old fans alike. But overall, the band has refined their sound in subtle ways while maintaining their signature ramshackle charm and their loose, open approach to songwriting. At times, the music feels more relaxed, yet at others, it exudes a fiercely focused intensity, like on the angry ripper Sublime Disconnect – my current favorite on the record.
Once again, Holiday Ghosts offers the high energy life-affirming jangle garage pop that can be enjoyed on a purely hedonic level. But, if there is any doubt, Coat Of Arms shows there are multiple layers to their musical and personal identities. Clearly, Holiday Ghosts still have plenty creative fuel and passion left in the tank. On to the next five albums. We’ll be listening!
Coat Of Arms is out now through Fat Cat Records.
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