Review of the album “My Ghosts Go Ghost” by Storm
By storm is a departure from the previous work of RiTchie and Parker Corey, known for their association with the Injury Reserve rap group. After the passing of Groggs, their latest album, My Ghosts Go Ghost, takes on a new identity that surprises fans and critics alike. Drawing influences from Xiu Xiu, King Krule and Ben Frost, the duo explores uncharted territories in sound and emotion.
The album marks a significant shift in style and tone from their earlier work. Injury Reserve’s mixtape, Floss, was a burst of energy that recalled early Kanye West and Chance the Rapper, resonating with a generation raised on DIY creativity. Their music was raw, bold, and filled with a sense of urgency and determination. However, the tragic loss of Groggs in 2020 altered their trajectory, leading to a sonic transformation that ventured into more experimental and introspective territory.
With Groggs’s absence felt strongly, RiTchie and Corey embraced a new artistic persona under the name “By Storm.” The music now reflects a maturity and complexity that wasn’t present in their previous releases. The album delves into themes of failure, loss, and resilience, offering a poignant reflection on the challenges of living with grief. While traces of their old sound remain, the overall tone is darker, more contemplative, and emotionally charged.
Corey’s production on the album shines brightly, showcasing his talent for pushing hip-hop into avant-garde realms. Tracks like “Zig Zag” and “Double Trio” highlight his ability to blend genres and experiment with soundscapes, creating a mesmerizing and immersive listening experience. The use of glitchy synths, distorted vocals, and intricate percussion adds layers of complexity to the music, inviting listeners into a world of sonic exploration.
Songs like “Grapefruit” showcase a different side of By Storm, with eerie, Xiu Xiu-esque vibes that challenge traditional rap conventions. RiTchie’s lyrics cut deep, touching on themes of fame, vulnerability, and identity with a raw honesty that is both unsettling and captivating. The album as a whole feels like a journey through unknown territories, with each track offering a new perspective on life, loss, and the human experience.
My Ghosts Go Ghost is a testament to By Storm’s evolution as artists, as they navigate the complexities of grief, change, and growth with grace and introspection. The album is a bold statement, signaling a new chapter in their musical journey and setting the stage for future explorations in sound and emotion. Whether they continue to operate under the By Storm moniker or return to their roots as Injury Reserve, one thing is clear: RiTchie and Parker Corey are artists unafraid to push boundaries and challenge expectations in pursuit of their artistic vision.