Francis Retrognome - A Place For Your Ghosts To Dance

​Francis Retrognome

A Place For Your Ghosts To Dance
​self-released; 2022

​By My Nguyen

Brand-new alt rock duo Francis Retrognome formed in early 2022. Consisting of singer/lead guitarist Tom Mahar and bassist Cayla Dean, their cast also includes a rotating group of very talented drummers who light up their sound with fast and riveting takes. The band’s sound on their latest album A Place For Your Ghosts To Dance is a blend of grunge and alt rock that often includes jaunty beats and upbeat rhythms. The mix of heavy and infectious vibes ends up creating something special that a lot of us will be coming back to again and again. Mahar’s energized vocal performances together with his expert musicianship on the guitar and Dean’s funk-heavy bass lines makes for a memorable delivery. Like the intro says ‘fasten your seatbelts’ – you’re definitely in for a ride!

After a spoken word performance that introduces the band, the track starts off with “Stay Out Of My Way,” where some bass lines enter the spotlight as the sound grows into a heavy grunge feel. The vibe sounded a lot like alt bands to come out of the ‘90s. Mahar imbues tons of feeling into his vocals. The rollicking guitar riffs also made this song. Loving the energy the band exhibits here. Some sparse guitar riffs come in alongside some percussion. Mahar attaches a ton of attitude and sass to this Bossa nova track. I enjoyed the jaunty rhythms and dreamy vibes. It made for a great sound. More rumbling bass lines arrive at the start of “A Mutinous Look.” Next, more simmering instrumentals come in. This song had a dark take to it as Mahar’s edgy vocals set the stage for a heavier vibe. 

Some sparse guitars enter the sounds on “The Heave In My Heart.” Mahar’s vocals are highlighted here as drumming beats come in support. The sound is sprawling and meandering as it takes its time in unfolding. Next, more shimming instrumentals arrive for a melodic and vibrant sound. More bass lines come in as Mahar’s vocals add a gritty take to “A Gift.” The vibes were heavier here and I was instantly reminded of Nirvana. There was a dash of bitterness in the execution of the vocals that I thought went on to add a nice touch to the lyrics. Some funky bass lines assuredly arrest listeners on “Inside Voice.” I was getting some smoky blues in the mix. Next, the sauntering music comes in for a slow burning feel. I was loving the attitude that Mahar brings to this track. It made for a great listen.

On “Maybe Someday,” some guitars highlight the start of this track with a warm acoustic vibe. The band shows a different side to their music-making here. There’s a touch of nostalgia and sentimentalism on this song that makes for a resounding vibe. On “Moon Dance,” some melodic guitars and sizzling percussion lights up the sounds here for a very Bossa nova approach. The catchy and jaunty tunes made for a romantic and alluring vibe. Some wind instruments come through alongside the sounds of rain falling outside on “666 The End.” Next, some guitars sidle in supported by a drumming beat. This felt like a slow burn to my ears as the rock sounds takes its time in evolving. Next, the momentum builds for a heavy rock vibe with bass lines reeling you in. The instrumentals each take their turn in being spotlighted as Mahar’s reverb-drenched vocals draw you in closer to the music. The instrumentals take a sprawling approach as the band members enter an enthused jam session. 

​Francis Retrognome brings to the table their unique blend of grunge and alternative rock. Bursting at the seams with high-tail energy, the band’s chemistry and rapport on these tracks reels in a sense of deep collaboration. These aren’t just professional musicians but close friends who are willing to show us a good time as they jam out on these riveting sessions. Jam-packed from beginning to end with the band’s enthusiasm and passion for music, I loved every moment of this record and would definitely love to see more soon!

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