Back in stock: Psych/Garage Rock

Review: Ghost are sadly an easily confused band - doubly so, for the fact that there is now a wildly popular masked metal troupe of the same name, *and* because there is, uncannily, a 1984 film named Ghost, also rather well known. This confounding is apparently so prevalent that the obligatory Wikipedia entry on *this* Ghost is titled
'Ghost (1984 band)'. We wouldn't usually mention it, save for the fact that this perhaps not so wilful obscurantism actually works in their favour. With Drag City's reissue of Ghost's first album on griseous vinyl here, it's safe to say that this Japanese experimental psych/acid record's aura as a hidden gem feels rare to come by. It's almost as if Ghost (1984) is 'haunting' the other aforementioned cultural touchstones of the same name. Don't get it twisted, though: Ghost formed in the early 80s, but this debut recording didn't make it to the pressing plant until 1990. What explains the gap in their CV, you ask? Legend has it that the band led a truly nomadic existence - as a "band" should, in all senses of the word - roving, drifting from ruined ancient temples to disused subway stations near Tokyo. With that all checked, the album itself is truly free-spirited and eerie, and not what you'd expect from contemporary notions of space rock, with prepared tinkerings and strange readymade detritus seeming to fill each piece at every twist and turn.

Review: One of the greatest things to happen to the vinyl industry, the beloved Australian rock collective are a force to be reckoned with in terms of releases. For all their conceptual and experimental releases however, 'Omnium Gatherum' works exactly as prescribed - a latin phrase roughly translating to "just a bunch of stuff". The double LP is a collection of reworked unreleased material, as well as original music tacked on to boot - King Gizzard fans never have to worry about getting bang for their buck. Expect frenzied shredding, nu-metal cuts and the occasional synth-pop banger. The real highlight here is 'The Grim Reaper', a fusion of hip-hop and medieval instrumentation if you can believe it. Kenny-Smith's flow is no doubt influenced by the Beastie Boys era of hip-hop, a style being repopularised by the likes of Joey Valence & Brae. The album is a crazy patchwork of genres that feels not unlike watching your favourite movie in the form of a highlight reel.

Review: MELTS' sophomore album Field Theory is a captivating exploration of interpersonal connections set against a backdrop of turbulent electronic psych-rock. Recorded live to tape and produced by Daniel Fox, the album delves into the intricate dynamics between individuals, drawing inspiration from the scientific concept of Field Theory. Through bulldozing motorik synth lines, layered guitars, primal percussion and Eoin Kenny's cavernous vocals, the band navigates the unseen forces that bind us together. Moving away from the macroscopic scale of their debut, Maelstrom, Field Theory delves into the intimate spaces between people, capturing the gravitational pull and light waves of human interaction. It's a hypnotic sonic journey that reminds us of the profound impact we have on each other's lives, resonating with the pulsating energy of our interconnected world.

Review: Dublin-based electro-rock four-piece MELTS are back with a stunning follow up to their knockout 2022 debut Malestrom. This is a band who know exactly how to draw the best out of their psych-leaning rock and fuzzy analogue electronics for a maximum energy rush, as perfectly demonstrated on the album's fiery opener 'Figment'. Recorded and produced with Gilla Band's Daniel Fox, the album explores themes of human interaction on a micro and macro level, and with a sound fit for massive festival stage grandstanding they're poised to bring together vast swathes of people for all manner of massive shared experiences.

Review: Paul Osborne, the mastermind behind Project Gemini, delivers a majestic body of work that seamlessly blends folk rock, psych soundtracks, and hazy cinematic funk. Colours & Light exudes a growing confidence and ease, reflecting Osborne's maturation as an artist. With a more layered and diverse sound, the album shines brightly with Osborne's global influences and collaborations with other musicians. The album's theme, developed through introspective lyrics inspired by insomnia, relationships, and the human condition, is expertly woven into a mesmerizing soundscape. From acid folk to psych-funk, the album incorporates elements from various cultures and scenes, resulting in a kaleidoscopic sonic experience. Overall, Colours & Light is a testament to Project Gemini's artistic growth and ability to create a rich and immersive musical journey that resonates deeply with audiences.

Review: Expertly curated by Time Capsule, Nippon Acid Folk 1970-1980 offers an authentic trip through Japan's rich psychedelic folk scene. Across its eight standout tracks, the album showcases a diverse range of artists and styles, from dreamy acoustic ballads to experimental electronic compositions. Each song is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the era, blending traditional Japanese folk elements with psychedelic and avant-garde influences from around the wider musical world. The album's carefully curated selection means it plays out with a sense of story that provides a fascinating glimpse into a unique period of Japanese music history. This one then is a must-listen for enthusiasts of experimental folk and global psychedelia.