Ghost of Vroom 3 is very much a sequel (yes, sequel) of Ghost of Vroom 1, itself a foray into Soul Coughing waters, hence the name of the band and album(s). Yet, it feels less like Mike Doughty solo than its predecessor and more a natural extension of his awesomely bizzaro 90s outfit. 

An effort that began back with the prospect of a reunion ended instead with Doughty dialing up the sonic undertones of his prolific post-Soul Coughing career to increasingly embrace the sound he shed since his 2000 solo debut Skittish. Now after four years and three releases as Ghost of Vroom, two 180s brings his musical evolution back full circle. The difference is that on Ghost 3, Doughty's voice plays, arguably, the least prominent role in the equation it ever has. He seems purposed to fully showcase the driving bounce of that taut drum and upright bass interplay so integral in drawing enough ears 25 years ago to develop a cult following and be a favorite of the critics. Ghost 3 is one of Doughty's finer efforts in the 21st century and the closest to that genuine air of cool Soul Coughing pulled off so effortlessly.