We are very honoured to bring you a first listen to the new single ‘Prize’ from London-based shoegaze maestros Ghost Patterns. ‘Prize’ is a cataclysmic onslaught of jangling, scything guitars and fuzzy, ambulant bass that creates an immersive wash, while distant, observant and louche dual vocals stream through the undercurrent. The driving attack has ghostly synth filigrees that add a haunting glow, and there is a thoroughly cathartic element to the sounds: driving, insistent and ominous, yet sweetened by melody and an anthemic force.
While it is easy to compare Ghost Patterns to Ride, Slowdive or a less brutal My Bloody Valentine, there is an added pop sensibility that recalls The Cure or The Stone Roses as well as a laced veil of goth. Added to this is a psychedelic, chemically induced burnish – a sixties jingle jangle sound that recalls The Brian Jonestown Massacre. Ultimately, though, Ghost Patterns are their own living creature, breathing a fiery breath of fresh air into the genre.
This is a very exciting release:
‘Prize’ is out on 11 August through all the usual downloading and streaming sites.
Ghost Patterns have only been together since 2019 and the current line up consist of Terry Hale (vocals/ guitars/keys), Morgan Ager (guitars), Lex Giggs (bass/vocals) and James Walker (drums and percussion).
While you are in the neighbourhood, be sure to check out their 2021 debut album ‘Infinite as well – it’s a marvellous and thrilling collection of dark and brooding tracks drenched in a gothic cape and adorned with sky-scraping guitars:
