Record Label: Epitaph Records
Genre: Screamo
Band Link: link
Buy on Amazon.com link

When Epitaph re-released I Am Ghosts’ demo under their label it became quite apparent that they believed they had discovered their own personal My Chemical Romance.’ That is to say, they had found a dark, eye-lined lacquered emo/screamo number that could sell a bazillion records. As their first release was only a demo recorded on an insignificant budget, the production was inadequate and bordering on horrendous. However, the powers-that-be at Epitaph could see through the lackluster recording and thus I Am Ghost released their first full-length recording Lover’s Requiem.’

The time and budget afforded the band is immediately present and the recording is top-notch. Self described by singer Steven Juliano, Lovers Requiem is “essentially a rock opera, but for hardcore or goth kids. In itself, that statement is an accurate depiction of this release. The huge canticle opener Crossing the River Styx’ is a precursor to the overwhelming assembly that follows.

Lover’s Requiem runs the gauntlet of musicianship and imagination. The teamwork style vocals can be equated to those of Evanescence. Track 10 The Denouncement’ throws everything (including the kitchen sink) at the listener. Tabernacle choir-style chants and hymns are surrounded by a bevy of violins, synth work and gritty guitars.

There is no denying the appeal of this band to those who embrace this scene. The vocals are velvety and the guitars chug along at times with blazing speed and melody. Our Friend Lazerus Sleeps’ sounds straight off a My Chemical Romance recording with the big sing along chorus and screams in all the right places. Although the production of this release is clearly upper echelon, don’t make the mistake of assuming it to be an overproduced cookie cutter post-hardcore entry. Lover’s Requiem maintains all of the bands energy and the instrumentation still retains an edge worthy of the punk moniker.

As you will come to know, I am not a huge expounder of emo/screamo punk music but I can appreciate it when it is done properly. I can look past the presentation’ and lovestruck, depression-laden lyrics and acknowledge a well-done piece of music. Such is the case with Lover’s Requiem.’ For what they do, I Am Ghost has found their own little niche in a saturated scene and I can respect that. Although not something I would find myself listening to on a regular basis, Lover’s Requiem’ is an excellent addition to this genre of music and will most certainly serve Epitaph well.

Bottom Line: A distinct entry into the emo/screamo scene that will undoubtedly please fans of this genre.
Notable Tracks: Our Friend Lazerus Sleeps, Pretty People Never Lie, Vampires Never Really Die, The Ship of Pills and Needed Things
Overall Rating: