Ghyti - Fluorescent Lights

Ghyti

Fluorescent Lights
self-released; 2014

3.7 out of 5

By Dan Meadow

Forming in 2011 Ghyti is a three-piece band comprised of Matthew Hill (vocals, bass, keys, guitar), Sam Henderson (guitars) and Travis Duke (drums) and recently released their fourth EP entitled Fluorescent Lights. I will say right off the bat that this band needs more fans because the music will resonate with fans of bands like Spoon, Blur and even Elvis Costello. The band presents six songs that are fully accessible pop songs that are pretty hard not to enjoy. None of the songs are that experimental or technically ambitious but it is completely made up by the immediate likeability of these songs. Better yet is that these songs aren’t like gum that tastes good at first but then you spit it out soon after. The songs even upon repeated listen keep their likeability.

One thing that is essential for pop songs like this is having a lead singer who can deliver. Hill has a very appealing voice that sounds nonthreatening yet full of emotion. The band implements different effects on his vocals, which create separation from the tracks.

Fluorescent Lights starts with a fantastic track entitled “Radio Unfriendly.” Hill sounds a bit like Britt Daniels and the music at time sounds like “Exit Music (For a Film)” by Radiohead. The song is pretty sparse revolving around acoustic guitar and vocals but is sprinkled with unique effects, which add a lot to the song. The vocal harmonies are excellent and support one of Hill’s best performances. “Radio Unfriendly” is both haunting and uplifting – a great achievement here.

They bust out electric piano on “Harder To Believe” creating a chill, relaxed vibe. The song is warm and like the first song contains some killer background vocals. I was definitely feeling some old school ‘90s Blur influence on “Fluorescent Lights Will Steal Your Soul” as the song projects a ‘90s Brit pop vibe.

“Misogyny” is up there with the first song in regards to songwriting. The music is simple but effective and Hill really carries the song with his vocal performance. As the song progresses they add subtle elements which add to the more emotional depth to the song.

Fluorescent Lights is a very solid effort that I could see spinning again in the near future. I think they still might be having a hard time finding their signature sound but they aren't far off.

Check these guys out.

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