DISCONTINUANCE

Here we have a brilliant statement, distributed by Jared Leach from Georgia, a singer/songwriter I've never heard of before. He decided to dub his project GHOST MEDICINE, this obviously intended as a working name. At least the second part nails it for some reason. Thematically they are ' ... exploring themes related to the contradictory and inexpressible nature of the human experience ...' - okay, nothing which surprises actually, though quite a broad subject indeed.

Jared can be proud of having excellent musicians on his side, first and foremost Colin Edwin of Porcupine Tree fame as well as expressive drummer Scott Prian. Additionally Sarah Hoefer takes the female vocal part. A surprising facet maybe, one would not necessarily expect. This will fit the album's context in general, and finally her contribution concerning the title track is a real treat. Shiver in the same way for example after some rounds, a rather mellow tune, featuring a slight country rock touch.

Coming to Jared Leach himself, he definitely put's his mark on the album with tricky guitar focussed compositions, hereby often running into heavy and powerful outings like on Desert Spring. His instruments are presented multi-layered, equipped with a properly formatted bandwith of acoustic and electric impressions. So this is partially including reminiscences of Opeth, Porcupine Tree, King Crimson ... very impressing. Furthermore, his voice, while often duetting with Sarah, is top too.

Equipped with some rare synth patterns the representative title track is crossing the ten minute mark, another highlight for sure. A little suite maybe, consisting of different partitions. I especially adore the short and groovy jamming interlude with propulsive bass, while Sarah is adding some ethereal impressions ... anyway, there's a lot to discover here. On a side note, in recent times I could listen to several music projects showing Colin Edwin contributing, 'Discontinuance' is an example which convinces me completely.