Every now and then an album comes along that is refreshing and new. ”Shadow People” by MY OWN GHOST is one of those albums. ”Shadow People” is a modern female-fronted melodic hard rock album with more than a nod to the ’80s – take a look at the cover art and that neon all over gives you a pretty good idea – yet at the same time delivering a fresh new sound that is sweet candy for your ears.
There is also plenty for fans of pop-rock and sci-fi to enjoy here, too. This is not a concept album at all; it is a collection of songs that fit together nicely to form a very pleasurable listen. Production is bright and clear, enhancing even more these catchy songs.
The album begins with a short intro, ’10-97 Downtown’, which links smoothly into ‘DecadenCity’, a fast-paced song with a very vibrant modern feel that perfectly sets the tone for the album. The Sci-Fi sounds of Jet Black Heartbreak lead us into a wonderfully catchy sing-along tune, with some great hard rock riffs and well-placed key changes.
‘Between Now and the End’ is a heavier song, with fantastic vocal harmonies and an electronic slant to the musical arrangement. ‘Regrets From the Past’ brings down the tempo a touch, and shows the bands softer side.
‘Number 2110’ uses some clever sound effects to change pace several times throughout, and creates a very up-tempo track to get you bouncing. ‘Remember’ is a gorgeous offering with a superbly understated backing track that further enhances the harmonious, crystal-clear vocals of Julie Rodesch.
‘Shadow in Your Room’ is brilliantly retro, with its dark riffing, haunting vocals and superb ’80s style guitar playing – a lovely dose of nostalgia!
‘Black Rose Motel’ hits a groove, bringing the band’s more metallic side to the forefront. It’s a song that’s guaranteed to get your pulse racing and your fist pumping, with some awesome fills from drummer Michael Stein.
‘Home’ continues the retro theme; the vocals are angelic, and the guitars are completely mesmerising, while ‘Dark River’ hammers out a pulsating beat and contains the best guitar solo on the album. ‘Somebody Else’s Sky’ is deeply rich in sound with several layers, creating a fantastic and atmospheric image for the listener. It blends perfectly into the final track, ‘Nightdrive’, which instantly revs up to high speed, takes you on a blistering musical journey and finishes with a bang.
”Shadow People” by My Own Ghost is a great listen; full of well executed melodic vocals, slick guitar playing, and although the lyrics are often dark, the delivery is very uplifting and thoroughly enjoyable.
As said, this is a very refreshing band, sounding authentic and naturally blending the 80s melodic feel good with an updated modern sound production.
Highly Recommended
1. 10-97 Downtown
2. DecadenCity
3. Jet Black Heartbreak
4. Between Now And The End
5. Regrets From The Past
6. Number 2110
7. Remember
8. Shadow In Your Room
9. Black Rose Motel
10. Home
11. Dark River
12. Somebody Else's Sky
13. Nightdrive
My Own Ghost – Shadow People 2022
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