GHASTLY SOUND - self-titled EP

Rock, and by default its subgenres and offshoots, has always been defined by the electric guitar; so much so, that it's still a bit surprising to hear a band that eschews its use. Vermont's Ghastly Sound is a vocal/bass/drum power trio that, judging by their debut EP, wants for nothing in the six-string department. 

Singer Tyler Gurwicz sets the band apart from other heavy-with-clean-vocals groups with his commanding, candid style. It's emotive but not "emo", at times recalling Steve Brooks (Torche) and even Chino Moreno. While Ryan Lewis (drums) is more than competent in coming up with interesting and diverse rhythms for the songs - particularly on highlight track "Cape Buffalo" - the onus is truly on bassist TJ Maynard to not only hold down the rhythm, but all the melodies and harmonies usually reserved for a guitarist. The fact that it's so hard to tell there ISN'T a guitar in the mix upon first listen is a real testament to Maynard's talent as a musician and songwriter.

Ghastly Sound also benefits from not fitting neatly into any particular genre. They're unquestionable heavy, but aren't full-on metal. An affinity for 90s noise is readily apparent - these guys definitely like Quicksand and Helmet - but "Cuttlefish" also has a dream-pop vibe buried under the distortion and harsh vocals. The groundwork for mass appeal capable of crossing multiple fanbases is being laid on this EP, and it will be fun to see where Ghastly Sound goes from here - besides straight up.

Ghastly Sound will release their debut EP on March 10; preorder it on their Bandcamp page HERE.