The Phantom Band

The Phantom Band's history is one of anarchy and mystery, full of relentless name changes (Les Crazy Boyz, Tower of Girls, Robert Redford, Robert Louis Stevenson, etc.), obscure cassette and CDR releases, and multiple side gigs. By 2009's Checkmate Savage however, the group seemed to settle on both a name and a general sound (a blend of noise, folk, and brooding Nick Cave-like dark touches). The band is known for unpredictable live shows, where they've worn bags on their heads or employed Stairmasters for the purpose of exercising the audience. It's all part of the Glaswegians' sense of humor and a try-anything philosophy that most significantly reveals itself in their eclectic, volatile songs. The Wants, their second LP under the Phantom Band name arrived in late 2010 and saw the band heading to the U.S. for appearances at the CMJ Music Marathon and a tour opening for fellow Scots Frightened Rabbit. With each of the six bandmates involved in a number of side projects, it took another three years to make their third album, 2014's Strange Friend. Featuring seven tracks cut from the Strange Friend sessions, the seven song follow-up Fears Trending arrived less than a year later in January 2015. ~ Justin Stewart and Timothy Monger