Haunted Horses NYC
How Do You Do starts off with a greeting of Hello instantly creating a personal connection that the listener can relate to. The second part of the verse has a weird phasing/octave sound on the vocals which counteracts the feeling of the first part of the verse. A backwards solo further amplifies the effect. The overall sound is pseudo psychedelic never completely going off the melodic rails.
Soulshaker Sun features Mattley Mountain on lead vocals and electric bass guitar. The sound is very full even though the band has only 3 pieces. The overdriven bass line is out front and carries the song along adding melody. The electric mandolin fills the space between the percussive rhythm and the vocals with style, sounding very much like an electric guitar. Soulshaker Sun is one of Haunted Horses best efforts.
Soulshaker Sun youtube music video by Haunted Horses.
I've always believed that every song, like any art, is subject to individual interpretation due to how the sound makes you feel and the things you may be going through when you first hear the song. In the case of the Haunted Horses song called Siren the song may be about the sound of an ambulance or fire truck siren. Some of the lyrics, in my opinion, describe the experience of riding in an ambulance on the way to a hospital. A subject which is so cool and unique to base a song lyric on. The musical landscape is also unique with it's harmonic note in the beginning and musical noises which fit into the musical ride the song takes you on.
I'm Gonna Miss Me highlights Joe Foldes' unique vocal style. The song title is relatable, inspiring a casual emotional connection. The tempo is fast with lots of melodic background vocals and amazing musical sounds.
I'm Gonna Miss Me LIVE youtube music video by Haunted Horses. Featuring John Epperly on Drums and Vocals, Joe Foldes on Wireless, Mobile Bass and Vocals and Mattley Mountain on Deluxe Lite-Up Guitar and Vocals https://youtu.be/kH9bmk88JAM
Half Quadrophonic was released in 2018.
True kicks off Half Quadrophonic with brilliance and style. The sound is alternative rock but Haunted Horses creates a musical mix all its own. The sound is created with an electric mandolin (very similar to the sound of a guitar), an overdriven electric bass (way cool!) and lots of melodious lead and harmony vocals. The lyrical content is uplifting and the electric mandolin sounds amazing. The verses lead into an exciting and melodic chorus.
True Youtube song video link https://youtu.be/oaYjE2LasMk
Radar has a catchy rock sound. The vocals seem to float along above the music as they carry the song along. A slide guitar or electric mandolin slide part weaves in and out of the mix, keeping things musically interesting. The instrumentation branches out a bit before the lead vocal brings the groove back in. The lyrical meaning is fleeting but I think it may have something to do with the underground music scene, at least that's my interpretation.
Smooth Rider starts off with a banging, pounding rhythm. The tempo rolls steadily along into a heavy vocal chorus. The lyrics are full of sexual innuendo. This song would obviously be a great choice as you drive to and from a familiar destination.
Smoothrider Youtube song video link https://youtu.be/8iInBP0_GVI
Retrograde is a up-tempo rocker. The intro brings on a feeling of anticipated suspense, wondering what sounds are to come. The percussion performance on Retrograde by John Epperly is the best on HQ. Once again the unique sound caught my ear with an electric mandolin carrying the main melody along with a distorted bass sound. The song has a primal urgency with its new wave feel and heavy hard rock rhythm. Retrograde is an excellent choice to round out the Half Quadrophonic release.
Haunted Horses NYC was formed in 2005 in Brooklyn NY.
Drums/Vocal- John Epperly
Electric Mandolin/Moog/Vocal- Joe Foldes
Bass/Vocal- Mattley Mountain