October is always a big month. It’s basically a month-long party for me with the greatest holiday in existence, Halloween, and my birthday is only a few days beforehand. In my experience, October is also a great month for new releases from bands that I love. This year, Portland, OR based stoner metal/rock band Red Fang return with their fourth studio release entitled Only Ghosts (Relapse Records). It’s different from their previous releases, but that’s part of what makes this album as entertaining as it is.

This album has pockets of catchy, almost pop-like tracks scattered with the occasional heavier track throughout the record, as shown with the singles ‘Shadows’ and its more musically accessible brother in ‘Not for You’. before ‘The Deep’ comes in to shake things up and give way to a decidedly heavier end as we reach the album’s close. I don’t think it’ll come as any surprise that ‘I Am A Ghost’ is my favorite track on the album. I mean, just listen to that bass. It’s simple but manages to give the song an underlying sinister feel. This song is sufficiently spooky for a Halloween party or a night of playing Betrayal at House on the Hill.

 

Although Only Ghosts hasn’t stabbed me in the heart like 2013’s Whales and Leeches (Relapse Records) did, I’ve still been listening to this album nearly nonstop. Even my roommate, who primarily listens to movie soundtracks and musicals, found herself enjoying some new tunes. According to her; “It’s the drumming, man.” So the boys, especially John Sherman, are doing something right. My love is reserved for bassist Aaron Beam, as is tradition.

7.5/10

ALEIDA LA LLAVE