The Ghost - This Pen is a Weapon

Still one of Chicago's most underrated bands, The Ghost has yet to really break out, playing a style of post-punk/rock/whatever that is all their own, without compromising their sound for a cash-in based on fashion or the recent "punk rock/emo" craze. The rawness that the Ghost has always displayed is still present, and Brian Moss' lyrics remain the band's shining star. Though some of the vocal formulas might be a bit overdone (sing-scream-talk-repeat), and choruses aren't as catchy as heard on 2002's This is a Hospital, the band redeems themselves with an immense increase in musicianship, grooving more than ever before, and incorporating sampling, acoustic guitars, etc., in just the right places. Moss' vocals embrace emotion as well as anyone in his league. The downside, sadly, is the quickness in which one can grow bored with This Pen is a Weapon, the defect that has also plagued them in the past. Songs tend to be drawn out and tiring, and there is little variation from track to track. Nothing sucks, but none of the songs exactly stand out. When The Ghost combines the best of both records, the punk rock world will have a new hero. But in the meantime, their outstanding live shows will be the key success factor behind the band. [www.theghostband.com]