Inspired by the 1990s grunge subculture, Los Angeles-based Love Ghost pays tribute to the most influential genre of alternative rock while also bringing it into the modern era. Having grown up together, the members of Love Ghost are able to innately express both the hardships and joys of suburban teenage culture within their music.
The band was formed by 15-year-old frontman Finn Bell (guitar, vocals) who demonstrates a maturity beyond his years with his soulful lyrics and arrangements. Love Ghost is rounded out by Max Toth (lead guitar), Will Toth (bass), Ale Sierra (drums), and Mya Greene (viola).
Despite the band members all being teenagers, their raw musical skills create a nostalgic triumph of distorted guitar melodies, heavy drums, emotive vocals, and perceptive lyrics. Love Ghost’s musical compositions are inspired by a mix of old Universal Horror films and iconic grunge acts such as Nirvana and Alice in Chains.
The Smashing Pumpkins-inspired lead single “Friday Afternoon” is off of Love Ghost’s 6-song self-titled debut EP, which was produced by Mark Renk (P.O.D.). It aims to reflect the importance of standing up for oneself especially during a time of hardship in teenage years. Written in the spring of 2015, Bell reflects upon his own experiences through the creative process of music, and actively urges his audience to do the same.
Bell describes his process as a continuous stream of consciousness that is drawn from his emotional response. Bell states, “It’s a shame that people tend to shy away from anything that feels too personal, because those types of things let you know who you really are.”
Despite only being together for a little over a year, the band has seen tremendous success, opening for such artists as The Tubes, Berlin, Ozomatli, and Buckcherry. Love Ghost has also played several high-profile festivals including Make Music Pasadena and Echo Park Rising.