Ghostland Observatory
Codename: Rondo
Ghostland Observatory’s fourth release Codename: Rondo is an interesting collection of songs. Even for Ghostland Obervatory, it’s a bit weird, but it’s refreshing to hear such a hodgepodge of sounds in one album.
Nothing about Codename: Rondo is consistent. Each song seems to be more bizarre from the previous one. The first track, “Glitter,” is the strongest song on the album and sounds more like some of their work from the album Paparazzi Lightning. “Glitter” is very catchy and has great, danceable beats. Even if you haven’t seen Ghostland Observatory perform this song live, if you’ve at least seen any footage of Ghostland Observatory live, you can imagine singer Aaron Behrens moving onstage to this track. The song has so many musical layers, there’s always something captivating your attention. The song that follows, “That’s Right’ seems to come completely out of left field. At times the guitar tones sound a bit like Primus while the deep vocals are a complete contrast to Aaron Behrens’ signature voice. This song prepares you for the rest of the album, there are no subtle transitions from one song to the next.
This album can take a few times to listen to, just to sort out what’s going on. Tracks like “Miracles” and “Freeze” are pretty solid, while “Codename: Rondo” and “Mama” leave you utterly confused. This album definitely leaves you with an impression, whether it’s positive or negative.
All four of Ghostland Observatory’s albums have been released through their own Trashy Moped Recordings. Even if you don’t like some of the songs on this album, you still have to respect them as artists. They are in control of their own creativity, marching to the beat of their own drum, rather than following trends. If you’re a Ghostland Observatory fan, Codename: Rondo deserves your attention.
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