Electric Light Orchestra. Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Sun Ra Arkestra. When a band adds an orchestral element to their name, the bar is set high by its predecessors. But while other large ensembles like Polyphonic Spree and Arcade Fire keep the mood relatively upbeat, a particular paranormal-inspired eleven-piece isn’t afraid to take their music somewhere darker.
NYC psych-soul-rockers Ghost Funk Orchestra certainly measure up with their stage-filling energy and blend of jazz-fusion, Latin, surf, stoner rock, and afrobeat into their spectral aura. The reticent lyrics, spacey guitar effects, and horn and string arrangements are all the product of chief songwriter Seth Applebaum who conceived GFO’s debut album as a tribute to his late grandfather.
Song For Paul just came out last month, and to put it lightly…it’s all over the place…in the best way possible. Be sure to explore all the sounds Song For Paul has to offer, and get your ghastly groove on right now with “Modern Scene”!
–Jack Anderson
