Ghost Heart’s The Tunnel has drawn comparisons to Vampire Weekend and Animal Collective, but a listen to the album proves that the Michigan foursome have a sound uniquely their own. At the opening of the album is “Whoever You Are”, a minute-and-a-half long introduction that left me a bit disappointed – a nicely put together instrumental track, but lacking in much imagination. However, as the first track led into the second, all fears were subdued. “Human Element” and the following tracks on The Tunnel show why Ghost Heart has been getting much deserved recognition. 

The album definitely gives indie music lovers a little something extra, a little bit different. Personally, I think The Tunnel fills a gap in the industry – it’s not as predictable as some independent albums have been recently, but it has a familiar feel and quality that fans will appreciate. “No Canticle” is a good example of this. The track is perhaps one that has allowed critics to make comparisons to other bands, but it has its own qualities that make it far and away something new and exciting. A steady and enthusiastic percussion line behind somewhat haunting vocals in “No Canticle” prove that Ghost Heart haven’t fallen into the trap of easily sellable indie pop music. I find it to be very easy to listen to and feel that it’s probably an amazing piece of work when performed live.

Although I can see where vocally some similarities can be made between Ghost Heart and bands like Vampire Weekend, I think it’s unfair to make too many comparisons like this. Ghost Heart clearly has their own sound, which is realised through the use of interesting percussion arrangements, bells, and unexpected vocals. The band has a strong musical foundation and a huge potential for growth onwards and upwards. The Tunnel’s eight tracks hover around six minutes each, but I found the album to be something I could listen to frequently, and wished for more of it. It will be exciting to see what direction Ghost Heart takes and what comes out of the band in the future.