Released in March 2021, this album includes lots of the band’s songs written during the pandemic era. Formed in 2011, this is the bands fourth album as they continue to hone in on their sound. They are not afraid to be melodic in any way and embrace their pop sensibilities. Songs about beaches and surfboards, with a heavy Brian Wilson influence, sit alongside more garage-type songs and imaginative guitar solos.
“It’s Over” starts off the album with bells and vocal harmonies, with a huge sound to follow, including horns and regal fanfare on the chorus section. “To You I’m Bound” is a fun and catchy love song with a memorable riff, and great saxophone solo. There are a lot of great rock moments with horns and saxophone on the album, which one doesn’t hear a lot in modern and psych rock.
It’s Over · Cool Ghouls from At George’s Zoo
“Smoke & Fire” has a perfect singalong chorus, with cool surf-style guitar solos, almost sounding like one of the original “nuggets” songs from the 60s. “Flying” is a more of a tongue- and-cheek country toe tapper with “La La” lyrics, and an out-of-nowhere psych guitar solo to end the track. “Land Song” sounds like it came from an old 70s movie, with touching soft piano, string arrangements, and crooning vintage style vocals. This track showcases the band’s ability to sound like they came from a different era, or at least having a wide array of influences. “In Michoacan” has a driving drum beat and more signature harmonies from the band, that I’m sure sound great being played live. “How Free” is a haunting acoustic ballad with comforting warm vocals.
Overall, the album has a lighthearted, sun-soaked California beach vibe, perfect for a summer day walking around. The music video for “Feel Like Getting High” is just this, with a gentleman enjoying the sights of San Francisco while partying maybe a little too much. This album is a nice addition to the band’s growing catalog of music.
Social Media Links:
https://coolghouls420.bandcamp.com/album/at-georges-zoo
https://www.instagram.com/coolghoulssf
https://twitter.com/coolghouls
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoysE9CimD4crJy9D2Y_PkA
Band members music projects:
https://patthomasthomas.bandcamp.com/album/i-aint-buyin-it
https://ryanwongmusic.bandcamp.com/album/the-new-country-sounds-of-ryan-wong
