THE RED EDGES are an Oakland, CA Hard Rock trio that definitely have a unique and intriguing sonic approach. The bands press sheet indicates they actually formed in "the year of the ghoul", hence the title I suppose. The press sheet describes the band's music as a "chaotic blend of Hard Rock, Punk and Blues" and that the band's core fan base is a collection of "dreamers, wanderers, vagrants and witches, kings and queens". There's apparently a requirement of "sacrificing a lamb and anointing your home's threshold" to join in the fun, but that's up to you.

"Year Of The Ghoul" kicks off with little wasted time and a quick drumstick count in for "Gabryel". Immediately one picks up on a TOOL influence, both in the changing tempos and in Jordan's vocal style. Very Maynard-like, yet still very unique. Chugging riffs and a heavy abstract Prog like approach musically. "Be Scared" is up next, and the unique approach definitely continues as Jordan's vocals are machine-gunned out aggressively more A PERFECT CIRCLE style here, but still retaining that Maynard vocal feel. "Tragedy" is the third track, and perhaps my favorite track as it feels most unique. Either Sean or Jake provide a dual counter vocal to Jordan's that really accentuate the song. Track four, "Leave It Alone" follows a similar approach and also rated pretty high. Whichever band mate that's providing the counter vocal here reminds me quite a bit of Chuck Garvey of the band MOE., which in fact would be somewhat an appropriate band comparison at times as well.

"Poison" is the halfway point in the album, and really seems like a track that allows the band to showcase musicianship. Here, Jordan's vocals carry a Dave Mustaine feel at times. "Every Story" might be the most abstract song, while "Ghosts" returns to that TOOL chugging pace. "Darlin's" bass intro carries a deceptive lull with it, before the guitar distortion reigns and the tempo begins to snake about to and fro. The title track came in as another favorite and closes out the album's 9 tracks ending after about 36 minutes. All things said, I really enjoyed the unexpectedness of the first listen through I did. It's definitely an interesting, and original album. While I did like it overall, I must admit that I found myself a bit underwhelmed with subsequent listens. But, with that said, if you prefer originality, and a fun approach, THE RED EDGES "Year Of The Ghoul" is definitely one worth checking out.