The Phantoms: “Wasting Time” – blasting guitars and solid rhythms

The Phantoms formed in 2012 and are based in Edinburgh Scotland. The band consists of Colin Simpson – Vocals/Guitar, Colin Mckillop – Lead Guitar, Blair Cullen – Drums and Zach Tarimo Goodhur – Bass. The band have supported acts such as Amber Run , Catfish and the Bottlemen, Vant and Trampolene and have also headlined the world famous King Tuts Wah Wah Hut venue in Glasgow, Scotland. The Phantoms released their first EP “This Is How It Should Be” in December 2013 followed by the successful single “Revolution” in 2014. Now in 2015, the band has released their latest single “Wasting Time”.

And it’s a tight, concise track that avoids those usually follow-up slumps, and especially those daunting third releases by most bands, instead The Phantoms focus on rocking hard here. There are no wasted notes or time on this track – none! It is filled with marvelous vocals, razor sharp, bone-crushing guitar riffs by Colin Mckillop, and terrific all-round musicianship, in particular the spectacular boom-bang drumming of Blair Cullen. The straight-to-the-bone, but snidely clever and evocative lyrics and singing of Colin Simpson is a real asset as well. And a special mention is also in order for bassist Zach Tarimo Goodhur whose skill has improved exponentially over the last few recordings. Those involved in the mixing and producing etc. deserve kudos as well – as the sound just jumps straight out of the speakers.

The Phantoms may look like hopelessly cute and talented dudes, but they make very grown-up indie rock. This track is dark and hard, yet with plenty of devilishly clever pop hooks to make it even more attractive, impressive and complete than anything they have done before.

The song picks up were the debut left EP off, with blasting guitars and solid rhythms, but it also points to some new direction ahead. “Wasting Time’s” steady rock-flavored melody, thoughtful lyrics, and smarter song structure add to the notion that this band are getting even better with time.

“Wasting Time” is one addictive listen. I haven’t ‘repeat-listened’ to any single so much in years. The Phantoms literally smash the hell out of indie rock with shuddering guitar blasts and spooky echoing riffs and vocals. The majority of the record buying public will soon recognize the quality behind the smashing, instantly catchy songs that The Phantoms deliver.

If you are already a fan, you know how good this band can be. If you are unfamiliar with them and just curious, then I highly recommend “Wasting Time”. Their fans are obviously growing with them, but the scary thing is that The Phantoms, who have been crafting their art for about 3 years now, haven’t even begun to hit their stride yet!