Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Love Ghost – Left On Read (2023)

When we left Love Ghost, frontman Finnegan Bell was working his magic with Ritorukai in ‘Human Error 404’. Taken from a series of collaborations with Mexican artists, the single embraced alternative rock tinged with Love Ghost’s signature pop-punk. Yet, it is not only here that the group explore new sounds, styles and scenes. Working with artists like Blnko, CHZTER and SKOLD, as well as renowned producers like Shantra, BrunOG and SAGA, Bell innovatively weaves Love Ghost’s pop-punk in nu-metal, rap-rock and trap building delicate, forceful and intriguing sonic experiences. The latest addition to their repertoire is ‘Left On Read’.

Joining forces with producer Mike Summers, Love Ghost twirls you about speeding past shimmers of alternative rock in ‘Human Error 404’, the scorching nu-metal of ‘GLOCK’ and rap-rock stylings of ‘Snap’ to stumble out on vintage pop-rock. A nostalgic whiff of Green Day and All Time Low lifts from ‘Left On Read’; however, Love Ghost’s signature style has them pushing the 90s bands aside pulling you into the Love Ghost light. Green Day is a challenging band to match but considering how this US-based band is quickly dominating the globe (extensive touring in the UK and Europe, rave reviews on international publications, etc), they aren’t too far behind.

Known for their intoxicating soul-stirring melodies, Bell joins Mexican artist Wiplash in ‘Left On Read’. Upbeat and toe-tapping, the pounding drums match soaring guitars with a bold bass keeping time in a harmonic pop-rock rhythm. While there is a melodic flow to the tune, pulsating brashness can be heard. Jovial bounce captures listeners sticking a smile on your face as you flutter across the melody; however, that brashness scorches your toes with the slicing lyricism.

Just as Love Ghost is known for its intense tunes, the intimate lyrics bring another degree of potency. Sifting through the realm of respect of others and yourself, Bell finds the darkness of disrespect in the fog. According to The Urban Dictionary, “left on read” is the highest level of disrespect a human can receive – and it all comes through in Love Ghost’s new single.

One element I find interesting is how instead of speaking against the individual disrespecting you with a “well, I hate you” attitude, Bell captures the confused vulnerability of being the victim. A high-paced happy tune veils frustration, torment and anguish with the oscillation between bright and dark. Wiplash’s hard-hitting vocals enhance the abrupt angst of ‘Left On Read’ while intertwined with the saddening tenderness of Bell’s dulcet tones.


In addition to the single, Love Ghost released an official music video for ‘Left On Read’. You can view it below or on their official YouTube channel. Please note that this video contains lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.



For more from Love Ghost check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustianablecurator


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