Detective Frog – “Phantom of the Community” [Song Review]

Las Vegas-based garage rock outfit Detective Frog recently released their single, “Phantom of the Community,” foreshadowing their forthcoming long player, Vol. I, inspired by classic monster movies and slated for release on Halloween.

Vocalist/guitarist Jacob Riddle explains, “‘Phantom of the Community (Theater)’ is our best attempt at reimagining the Gaston Leroux classic. We rely on the rock-modified waltz timing to guide the listener through the dark verses and heavy choruses. We can only hope everyone has as much fun listening to it as we do playing it.”

French author Gaston Leroux wrote the novel The Phantom of the Opera (Le Fantôme de l’Opéra), published in 1910, and later adapted for the stage and film.

Along with Riddle, Detective Frog includes Ricky Business (drums) and Bill Lizard (bass). The band’s sound merges elements of stoner rock and garage rock into unique sonic textures.

Opening on a John Bonham-like drum shuffle, “Phantom of the Community” flows into a dark, staccato rhythm topped by eerie bass-top-top guitars as Riddle’s spine-chilling vocals imbue the lyrics with portentous tones. On the chorus, the guitars mousse up to heavy, growling surfaces while Business’ voice takes on unnerving, rasping nuances, escalating the feeling of dramatic malevolence.

At once visceral and drenched in a sinister, brooding mood, “Phantom of the Community” gives breath to unrelenting, Machiavellian wickedness.

Detective Frog

Run Time: 3:44
Release Date: September 1, 2023
Record Label: Independent