There’s something fascinating about things falling apart, even if you happen to be in their near proximity as they start to take a tumble. Call it the “deer in the headlights” effect. Blame it on being totally mesmerized. Or, simply, if you must, say that it’s a fatal attraction.
Judging by the news, the world’s good fortune is sliding down the gutter. In some places, it is quicker than in others. We’re all paralyzed by fear yet unable to look away. Most of us can’t make any sense of it all. This is why we need artists who won’t mince their words and won’t spare us the uncomfortable truths.
Ghost Wounds’ “Slow Apocalypse” isn’t just a collection of rock songs inspired by how bad things have gotten in the world, but especially about just how bad things are about to get. It’s scientific, and Ghost Wounds have their own approach to investigating this matter – emotional, guitar-driven songs.
The three-song EP opens with “Fate of Lust,” a tune that brings to mind the original emocore bands such as Rites of Spring, or even the funkier Fugazi. It’s a song that hides little from the audience, with muted verses leading to tumultuous choruses all marked by a question and confession: “Where do I belong?”
Next, “Crossed Heirs” feels like slowly being lowered down into a wet cement. The music does a good job of propping the concept. This is a tune about being born in a savage, war-loving nation – presumably the U.S. of A.
Where does this leave us? Nowhere good, as it turns out. “Inferno” is the EP’s finale and, according to its authors, a possible finale to life on our little blue planet. Once again, Ghost Wounds’ show that they are turning into masters of dissonance, endless tension, and guitar distortion over choruses that add questions to the already existing ones.
Ghost Wounds’ “Slow Apocalypse” operates within the confines of great mental dread. But the musicians are quick to justify exactly why they feel this way. The music, in cooperation with any random new bulletin, should have the effect of making you feel the exact same way.
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