EP REVIEW: Ghost World – Justin Courtney Pierre

MOTION CITY SOUNDTRACK frontman Justin Courtney Pierre is well known for his large hair and an even larger array of musical talents. Ghost World, the third in a trio of EPs (originally planned as one full-length album), completes JCP‘s latest musical journey in a darker but no less accessible place than the previous releases. It’s a swift listen boasting five tracks, two of which clock in at under three minutes, but its brevity doesn’t diminish its power. This is a melancholy record that sees the affable songwriter exploring the darker parts of both his psyche and his musical influences. It’s also the best of the three EPs Pierre has released this year.

Opener Horse Racing is one of two tracks on the album that would fit in seamlessly into MCS‘s catalogue, albeit with a distinctly grunge flavour, with the droning guitar tones lending the instrumental a darker edge. The bouncy verses allow JCP to bring in some of his trademark wit which works to offset the song’s sombre mood. After that, Steady As She Goes‘ soaring chorus taps into the higher echelons of JCP‘s vocal register, bringing powerful old-school emo vibes to proceedings. The harsher guitar tone lends the song palpable energy, leading perfectly into a sing-along chorus that wouldn’t feel out of place on an early JIMMY EAT WORLD record.

JCP fully embraces his emo influences on Somewhere A Dark Heart, the record’s high point. The rhythmic and progressive riffs highlight JCP‘s knack for melody, as the guitars build in tandem with the rising emotions in the vocal performance. Shades of SUNNY DAY REAL ESTATE appear on this track, a comparison JCP would likely not dispute as he has admitted the track owes a debt of gratitude to 90s emo. Where the track really stands out is in the guitar work – the catchy rhythm lines providing the perfect backdrop to a sparkling lead melody.

Temporary Education is another salvo of emotional rock, energised by the spirited female backing vocals, before JCP leaves us wanting more with the stripped-back Gate Kicker. This track has all the infectious melody of MCS‘ greatest hits, but with a kick, like a shot of whiskey poured into sugary soda pop. The female backing vocals return to soften one of Pierre‘s angrier vocal deliveries, blending wonderfully with the biting guitars which are thick with distortion. 

It all makes for a solid rock record with an appropriate level of melancholy for the darkening nights of the winter months. But thanks to JCP experimenting with different aspects of his roots, the album also feels urgent and energised – adjectives that you might not associate with the songwriter’s previous release The Price Of Salt. If a new MCS record is to follow, it will be fascinating to see how these darker parts of JCP‘s personality manifest on what is likely to be a lighter record in tone and musicianship. For now, though, Ghost World is a great record to tide us over until MCS hit the road again next year.

Rating: 8/10

Ghost World is set for release on November 12th via Epitaph Records.

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