The much-maligned and misunderstood Ghostbath. This is not a return to form, as they never became out of form. What it is, though, is a reaffirmation of what they do so well. “Rose Thorn Necklace” is a twisty-turny soundscape that continually defies expectations. It never goes where you are expecting it to. When you are anticipating it will speed up, it slows down. When you think it is about to become tender and introspective, it hits you with a mound of feedback. It is a gloriously indignant album that enjoys second-guessing the listener. It is a helter-skelter ride through shifting musical planes, and it leaves you breathless, befuddled, but desperate to get back on the ride for another go.

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