For some time now, Los Angeles-based Love Ghost’s star has been on the rise.
By Graeme Smith
We’ve been fans of his since 2023, impressed by his range of collabs and ability to articulate modern youthful malaise.
His new album Gas Mask Wedding feels like his seminal work. As Finnegan Bell, the man behind Love Ghost, explains, it’s a record that’s taken a long time to see the light of day. Started when Love Ghost was a band, the tracks have gone through a fair few iterations before arriving at the form we hear.
In a nod to its genesis, Bell has also included a few bonus tracks which he describes as “deep cuts” intended for those who have stuck with him since the early days.
Because of this, Gas Mask Wedding feels like Love Ghost’s sound at its most polished. Each track is a perfect example of modern pop, yet they all have that emotional edge we’ve come to expect from the project.
Bell’s signature violent imagery is rendered beautiful through his phrasing and delivery. Fucked Up Feelings is a perfect case in point.
There’s an accessibility to it all too. Some tracks would not be out of place on rotation at a hit radio station. If Left On Read doesn’t end up a global super smash, what are we even doing? Its wordplay and relatable tale of heartbreak makes it a highlight.
It’s not all polish, though. Bell isn’t afraid to push the envelope in Gas Mask Wedding. Halfway through we get a spoken word skit. There’s also an unexpected deviation into classic rock in the form of Sandcastles. The track enlists the talents of Smash Mouth’s Zach Goode and the singer’s still got it vocally.
Gas Mask Wedding plays like a concept album, telling an extended story of a sudden withdrawal of love, and subsequent difficulties loving again. It’s clearly written from experience and Bell’s ability to communicate that authentic emotion is what makes it such a compelling listen.
Love Ghost is a project with a sound that’s popular right now but is by no means a trend follower. Bell is forging his own path with the project and working with others who are doing the same. Along with the appearance of Goode, we get input from Wiplash, Reverie, and London’s The Skinner Brothers, among others.
But at the heart of it, it’s Finn’s story – one he persevered in telling and I suspect will all be worth it when it gets him the attention he deserves.
Gas Mask Wedding is out now, and you can listen to it below.
Supported by Musosoup #SustainableCurator
