GHØSTKID
Hollywood Suicide – Century Media Records
Released during the dark days of the global pandemic, it would have been understandable if GHØSTKID’s eponymous debut album sank without a trace. However, it was strong enough to propel the band to global prominence, and their pugnacious brand of nu-metalcore won them many plaudits and, most importantly, fans. It means their second long player ‘Hoillywood Suicide’ comes weighed with expectations, and I’m pleased to report that it passes with flying colours. From trap-metal beats to metalcore riffs via gothic inflections and nu-metal beatdowns, this is a record that’s always shifting gears, yet it’s stitched together by a strong thematic concept. Exploring the seedy side of Los Angeles’ most famous conurbation, ‘Hollywood Suicide’ takes the listener on a wild, cinematic journey through neon-lit streets where fame and fortune can be won and lost on the roll of a dice. It’s a roller-coaster ride that finds the protagonist hitting heady highs and lonesome lows, and as you’d expect from such a story, the music is equally vivacious. While it’s perfectly feasible to dip in and out, it’s best to experience this record in one sitting to appreciate it’s ebb and flow, because this is one jaunt you won’t want to end.
Review by Peter Dennis