FANTASMA – Quase

“Fantasma was formed in NYC in the year of 2022 by two friends that immigrated from Brazil to try their luck in the belly of the beast. Fantasma, meaning ghost in portuguese, tells the story of a soul that aims to become real and establish a better future amidst dystopian times. The songs are punk / post-punk influenced by bands like Wire, Wipers, UK anarco-punk and brazilian soul, especially Tim Maia who also lived in NYC and was deported after robbing a car. These are lyrics about class struggle, being undocumented, riding your bike for work, faith in the unseen and failing in and out of love. The band is now: Lucas Cabu, Gustavo Venturelli, Marc Grillo (Stigmatism), Margaret Chardiet (Pharmakon/ Dollhouse) and Craig. Songs written and recorded by Gustavo Venturelli and Lucas Cabu at home.” A swirling, beautiful collection of songs make up the Fantasma debut LP (a demo cassette was released a few years ago), steeped in DIY punk. At times reminiscent of A Culture of Killing, Straw Man Army and Diat, one of the most refreshing and original records you will hear this year.