Ghost on Mulholland EP by Good Bison
In a musical landscape often dominated by trends and formulas, Good Bison emerges as a beacon of authenticity and innovation, as vividly captured in their latest EP, Ghost on Mulholland. Pablo Alvarez, the creative force behind Good Bison, channels Rick Rubin's ethos of making art for oneself into a sonic experience that transcends the conventional boundaries of genre and era. Ghost on Mulholland is not just an EP; it's a journey—a sunbaked odyssey from the buzz of the beach to the secluded whispers of an afterparty nestled in the hills.
The opening track, "10 Mins Away," is an exhilarating dive into the dichotomy of anticipation and the exhilaration of arrival. It embodies the quintessence of adventure, wrapping listeners in a narrative that oscillates between the tangible tension of waiting and the liberating thrill of reaching a destination. Alvarez's craftsmanship shines as he weaves traditional rock and roll sensibilities with the contemporary edge of sharp lyrical delivery, demonstrating a mastery over the art form that's both rare and enchanting.
As the EP unfolds, Haunting emerges as a standout track, a testament to Alvarez's versatile artistry. With Spanish guitar licks that echo the soulful serenades of Carlos Santana and buttery vocal arrangements that could contemporary the most poignant of Sublime's melodies, Alvarez crafts a narrative that's both intimate and expansive. The song's alternate Spanish bridge and chorus transport listeners to a realm that's ethereal yet grounded—a musical interlude that's reminiscent of an acid-washed afternoon meandering into a starlit rooftop encounter.
Ghost on Mulholland blurs the lines between day and night, reality and fantasy, inviting listeners on an escapade that's as unpredictable as it is enchanting. The EP's inherent ability to lose the listener in time and genre speaks volumes of Alvarez's intent to create not just music but an experience—one that's designed to resonate on a deeply personal level, yet accessible enough to jam out to indefinitely.
Good Bison stands at the crossroads of authenticity and experimentation, reminiscent of the Dirty Heads' genre-defying compositions but firmly anchored in its unique identity. With Ghost on Mulholland, Alvarez and his ensemble invite us into their world—a world where music is both a personal solace and a universal language. As we eagerly anticipate what's next from Good Bison, one thing is clear: if it's anything like this EP, we're not just observers; we're part of the journey.
This exploration into Ghost on Mulholland is more than a review; it's an ode to the timeless beauty of creating music that's true to oneself. Alvarez's journey is a reminder that in the pursuit of artistic expression, the most compelling stories are those that remain unfettered by expectation, resonating with a truth that's both personal and pervasive.