Reuther – Like A Ghost

I have to admit, I had never heard of Detroit pop-punk act Reuther before the release of their debut record, Like A Ghost.  I was pleasantly surprised to encounter the trio’s energetic, full  bodied contributions to the youthful genre easily justified initial comparisons with The Loved Ones, The Swellers, and The Flatliners.  A steady, uplifting early 00’s beat complemented by intermittent bouts of melodic EpiFat sensibilities make Reuther natural newcomers and a natural addition to the pop-punk family tree.

The fast and furious beats of drummer Daniel P. Stover set the tone for opener “Statement” to launch headlong into the action without a hint of hesitation.  Vocalist James “Hollywood” Vee commands high flying, borderline falsetto vocals that bring to mind qualities of The Wonder Years and their peers.  The track serves as a natural point of interest for a broad audience, and bleeds effortlessly into neighbouring track “Tuxedos and Jetskis,” which ups the ante with a far flung guitar solo that showcases the band’s technical chops.  There’s a certain authenticity that separates Reuther from their more paint-by-numbers peers – a genuineness that immediately quells fears that Like A Ghost will be faceless and forgettable.

The album’s latter half maintains momentum very comfortably, further solidifying Reuther’s stylistic alignment.  “So Permanent” in particular settles upon a particularly catchy corridor of melodic choruses that just begs for a sing along.  On the opposite side of the spectrum, closer “Sleeping In” takes a richer, introspective approach, filled with “woah-oah” harmonies that strengthen the band’s message about self-acceptance and self-reflection.

Overall, Like A Ghost is a fine introduction to what Reuther is all about.  Fast pacing, melodic choruses, and an easy going demeanor collectively mean that Reuther doesn’t attempt to be more than it needs to be to catch listeners’ ears.  Like A Ghost is a very constructive full length debut that leaves room to grow, while remaining immensely satisfying.