The Man They Couldn't Hang... is Hola Ghost's second album. The band's label, Hola Pete Records, released it on vinyl in 2009 and reissued it by Svart Records in 2019. It's back on two vinyl variants: red/black splatter and transparent red.
Hola Ghost was formed as a duo by Peter Sandorff (ex-Nekromantix and Mad Sin) and long-time friend Jeppe B. Jessen to work on the soundtrack for LA-bound artist Gris Grimlys' debut movie, Cannibal Flesh Riot.
Hola Ghost's Mexican Death Metal is in full bloom on this killer vinyl release. I've labeled it Rock, Metal, and Surf with a Spanish flavor, but none of these descriptors work. The unique blend of these genres is a testament to the band's versatility and will surely pique your interest.
What I appreciated the most was how they layered their sound, particularly with the guitar. The many changes they make are impressive and entertaining, and they do it skillfully throughout this recording.
Side A begins with their theme song, "Hola Ghost." The driving surf-tinged opener features elements of Spanish flavor and breaks by guitar picking back and forth to the faster parts. The energetic rhythm section makes this a great starter and introduction to the band's sound, leaving you salivating for the next one.
"Spanish Moon" has a strumming guitar beginning for this semi-ballad. The horns from hell enter the picture, then a momentary lapse of sounds, it kicks into higher gear with a faster tempo, and then it reverts to the more mellow atmosphere with the guitars weaving their spell, swaying back and forth. The instrumental section, effects-filled guitar, incredible drums, and bass, do their job and then return to the beginning.
"The Man They Couldn't Hang" is a personal favorite. The catchy guitar licks form a soundtrack to a classic Western film, and the dark subject matter adds depth to the track. This standout piece is just one of the many gems waiting to be discovered on this album.
"Mulo Esqueleto Volante" (translated Flying Skeleton Mule) starts cranking with their trademark Spanish flavorings. Of course, the surf rock guitar is rocking. A woman is speaking in Spanish throughout. Otherwise, this is an absolute banger instrumental. I loved the guitar effects.
"Marguerita" is another one that became one of my instant favorites. It segues from the previous track, so it's a nice transition. The guitars and horns merge to create the Spanish storm, with the music blazing hot for this woman who is the subject of the man's great affection. Guitars are charging all the time, and all at a rapid pace. This is a rockin' love song. It slows down at the end and fades out, but I don't think his love for Marguerita does.
"Alligator Girl" is a short run with some interesting lyrics. A soft acoustic guitar song about another woman moves along sweetly for his alligator girl. It catches you off guard and is an unexpected way to end the first side of the LP.
"Stay Awake" jumps in at the beginning of side B. It picks up the pace immediately after the slower curtain closer from Side A. It's cranking and gets your blood moving fast with their rockin' Spanish flair. Expressive vocals populate the air, and there is an instrumental break, slowdown, and then an intro to the band members. It then starts moving again, and in an offbeat way, then a chant of Hey! Hey! Along with a driving rhythm and guitars with a surfy sound.
"Dragon Balls" is a showcase of the band's outstanding musicianship. The guitar wails, the drum beat forms the core, and the Dick Dale-like runs add a unique touch. The layers of instrumentation and significant transitions demonstrate the band's skill and dedication to their craft.
"Cannibal Flesh Riot" has an atmospheric entry. The guitar comes in heavy with some screaming, and then there's a big switch to a jangling guitar. It then changes in tempo with many changes and variants of the guitar's sound and rhythm. An exciting and interesting mix. It ends abruptly.
"Six Bullets" opens with drums and a strong, thick guitar sound as Peter screams, "See You in Hell!" This is a heavy rocker with a bit of surf around the periphery. There is a break for a slowdown and mellow guitar now, a tasteful lick or two, then a segue into the album closer.
"Night of the Vampire" is a perfect ending to an ideal performance. There is a great intro and a howl from Peter. Now, some hooks from the guitar grab you with great rhythms, bass, and drums. Vampire! is screamed with some distortion, making it sound spookier. Lots of howling and can't-miss guitar licks finish it off.
The Man They Couldn't Hang... is an excellent and colorful recording that combines so many genres; it's a wonder they do it so well. I am not surprised, and that is precisely why, after discovering them last year through Svart Records' promo for Chupacabra, Hate & Fight, they are now considered one of my favorite bands.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Reviews Founder
May 4, 2025
Tracks
Side A:
A1. Hola Ghost
A2. Spanish Moon
A3. The Man They Couldn't Hang
A4. Mulo Esqueleto Volante
A5. Marguerita
A6. Alligator Girl
Side B:
B1. Stay Awake
B2. Dragon Balls
B3. Cannibal Flesh Riot
B4. Six Bullets
B5. Night of the Vampire
No comments:
Post a Comment