Release Date:
(June 20, 2006) Label:
Thirty Ghosts Records Producer: Erik
Wofford
Grace
Hotel Overall Rating: +++-
Album Review
I
don't know why but I have always had a soft spot for
Ep's. Don't ask me why but I do. If you are like me you
have never heard of Ghost Of The Russian Empire.
But you
might want to tack them up under your radar.
The record's opening track, "August 1914" starts
off with a
trumpet. And then eases into a nice tempo groove.
Sprinkled
with horns through out. I really like the change in tempo
during the song. Other strong numbers include "Psychomedicated"
and "Plague & Punishment.""Dialection"
with it's soft vocals
reminds me of early Catherine Wheel. The
song is really hurt
by the lack in dynamics. Even with it's obvious short
comings.
It has still managed to grow on me.
"Plague & Punishment" is the closing track and
probably my
favorite. It is a very hauntingly striking song. All the
instruments on this one sound very good working together
on
this one. Almost giving off a Starflyer 59
vibe.
With a little luck "With Fiercest Demolition" will
establish Ghost Of The Russian Empire amongst the shoegaze
contingent.
Which I'm sure the band will not stay there for long. I
can see
them shifting and bending. Hopefully they will keep their
fans
guessing with each new record. They deserve your
attention.
I look forward to seeing how they grow and where they
take us
on their nice little voyage.
For Fans Of: My Bloody Valentine, Catherine
Wheel, The Verve, Starflyer 59, Yo La Tengo, and Ester
Drang