This is a quiet song best heard loud. That fits the mantra of its owner, electronic outfit Sir Sly.

One can only guess that this would be the thought process of the mysterious group. With interviews and band biographies tricky to get a hold of, no one can say for sure as to the theme of their first single. “Ghost” opens strong but never truly reaches a breaking point. Soothing as the lyrics suggest, the “peak” of the already calm vocals is an even more hushed breakdown with singing increased an octave or five. The result is effective; so appeasing is the tune that it leaves you wanting more. This can be achieved simply by upping the volume. With lyrics as subdued as these and nary a shift in excitement, the skeleton of the song suddenly becomes the skin, and the best way to enjoy the spiny backbeat-bass of an electronically driven track is to crank it up. Just as volume goes hand in hand with American muscle, the revving electronics crave extra decibels as they drive much of “Ghost.”

This Los Angeles trio pops up only long enough to release a new single and then reverts to its submerged form – seemingly able to withstand supernatural lengths of time without air. Show listings aren’t quite as scarce yet, if you live in the greater L.A. area. For the rest of us, just be thankful that you make enough for broadband on your mobile device. Or that the office computer or college library has the google machine. Or your local coffee house allows wi-fi privileges to under-paying loiterers like you, because “Ghost” is a success. Taking note of the next time Sir Sly pokes its collective head above water would be, too. 

About The Author

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A Madison native and UW graduate, Chris Kraemer lives and breathes between Monona and Mendota. His passion for experiencing an album in its entirety helps him feel at home while frequently apart from his beloved isthmus.