We might still be early into 2025, but the fellas in I See Ghøsts, a pummeling German post-hardcore quartet, have just dropped one of the sickest records of the year with their new EP, Goddamn Fine. This latest release is 18 minutes of moody yet bombastic post-hardcore-tinged bangers. I See Ghøsts goes equally challenging on melancholy vibes and explosive rock energy, resulting in a heartfelt scream-along experience for the ages.

The opening track, “Down Here,” sets the tone for the rest of the record perfectly. Somber bass lines give way to crunchy guitar riffs and firebrand drumming, with punishing kick drums, pulsating hi-hats, and perfectly executed smacks on the bell ride. The dichotomy between the pop punk-inspired main vocals and the harsh, bad cop screams that appear toward the end feels like a whirlwind in your headphones. “Underwhelmed” follows suit, a track heavy with haunting alternative rock melodies reminiscent of the golden age of Linkin Park that switches to blistering pop-punk salvos of intense energy at a moment’s notice.

“Fairy Tales” feels like one of the heaviest songs on the entire EP. Creepy guitar melodies linger during the song’s brief moments of calm before the barrage of post-hardcore drums and the masterful exchange between clean and harsh vocals yank the listener out of their seats and into I See Ghøsts world of head banging and screaming along. Another killer jam we must discuss is the record’s epic title track/grand finale, “Goddamn Fine.” Everything you loved about the other songs on this release, the dark vibes juxtaposed with blistering rock’n’roll performances, the eerie guitar effects, bludgeoning riffs, catchy vocal hooks, and crazy emotive screams, it’s all here in the final track, taken to another level; alongside insane double bass drum patterns and a harrowing but oh so perfect string section. Rock fans rejoice; I See Ghøsts are kicking 2025 off with a bang.