For fans of Vision Video, Dusty Gannon is a familiar figure, often humorously portraying his “Goth Dad” character on TikTok, bringing the gothic subculture into the social media age with a sense of wit and warmth. However, on ‘Modern Horror’, Gannon trades the humor for haunting intensity, showing another side of his creative persona. This album is an introspective, emotionally raw exploration that speaks to today’s disillusioned and the alienated. Drawing on his own experiences as a veteran and paramedic, Gannon’s lyrics are not only poetic but deeply personal, bringing themes of trauma and resilience to the forefront.
The album doesn’t stop at introspection; it casts a broader lens on society as well. With themes tackling political extremism, rising authoritarianism, and the pervasive feeling of despair, ‘Modern Horror’ becomes a vessel for both personal and societal commentary. Vision Video’s sound is reminiscent of goth rock pioneers like The Cure and Bauhaus, yet it has evolved to include elements of modern synthwave and darkwave, thanks in part to Emily Fredock’s intricate synth lines and Ryan Houchens’s powerful drumming.
Musically, the album is polished, with Grammy-winning producer Ben Allen’s guidance ensuring each note and lyric is both haunting and accessible. Frank Arkwright’s mastering adds the final touch, giving the tracks a rich, immersive quality that invites listeners into Gannon’s haunting vision. Vision Video’s ‘Modern Horror’ is a testament to goth rock’s ability to reflect modern life’s darkness while offering listeners a cathartic release through music that is intensely relatable.
