Funny thing about goth pop. It seems to have disappeared. But I got more than a hint of the old sound when I first put this on. I didn't connect the dots until I saw United Ghosts's label. And then I realized that yesterday's goth pop = today's shoegaze. Oh, it's not a perfect equation, but this set reminds me a hell of a lot of Big Electric Cat. And that's a big thumbs up from me.

United Ghosts Saturn Days (Cleopatra)

To be sure, United Ghosts is more straightforward than most goth acts, and it relies on minor keys somewhat less. But the sideways approach to traditional pop-rock construction sounds pretty familiar to my ears. Those ringing guitars bring it all back to me.

Much more muscular than yer average shoegaze act, United Ghosts has broadened its sound into new territory. Perhaps that makes my equation even less accurate. I've never really been one for labels, even with cool coincidences like this. In any case, United Ghosts makes its own case very well.

And yes, the bliss out elements are wonderfully engaged. United Ghosts may have punched up its introspective sound, but there's still plenty for the frontal lobes here. Float the flow. Don't look back.

Jon Worley