The breathtaking and unforgiving landscape of Reykjavík, Iceland seems to have influenced or reflected the tormented inner landscape of John Grant, frontman of The Czars. His second solo album (and his second since moving to the island), Pale Green Ghosts, follows Queen of Denmark, both of which dwell in Grant’s universe of depression, loneliness, dark humor, addiction and heartbreak. The always intuitive and incisive Grant brings even more intensity to Pale Green Ghosts with his 2011 diagnosis as HIV positive. Produced by producer Biggi Veira (Gus Gus), Grant introduces synth pop which does not so much add levity as much as it functions as a heightened gravity, once again demonstrating Grant’s fine touch as a talented songwriter. Standout tracks include “Glacier”, “Ernest Borgnine”, and “It Doesn’t Matter To Him.” – Written by SMarx
SIMILAR | The Czars, Bill Fay, Field Music, Midlake, Matthew E. White