Ghost – Meliora

Ghost was everywhere at the recent Horrorhound movie convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. And, we’re not talking about the supernatural kind. More like, the unnaturally great, musical kind. Everywhere you looked this past weekend at the horror fest, fans were sporting Ghost t-shirts, talking about Ghost’s latest album and dressing up as members of Ghost for a costume competition. (The competitors dressed as Papa Emeritus III and a Ghoul won their category!)

Clearly, Ghost, formed in Sweden in 2008, has taken the world by storm. In fact, many of their European tour dates, finishing off 2015, are all ready sold out. Fortunately, there may still be opportunities to catch a performance during the U.S. leg of the tour, including at an upcoming show at the Newport Music Hall in Columbus, Ohio on September 23rd, 2015.

The tour will likely include music from the band’s debut full length album, Opus Eponymous, their second album Infestissumam and the brand spanking new album, Meliora.

Meliora, released by the unique six member rock band, including vocalist Papa Emeritus III and the Nameless Ghouls, is an album seeped in classic liturgical and rock influences. Ghost’s blend of organ, chorus, haunting vocals and orchestral washes is unique and, somehow, works quite well. The riffs are reminiscent of 1970s rock. As well, Ghost takes us to church. Well, if the church’s choral music sounds a lot like Black Sabbath and Slayer with a divine twist. As with the band’s previous releases, Meliora celebrates the thunderous pageantry that is rock. The tracks in Meliora include heavy rock, such as “Spirit” and “From the Pinnacle to the Pit,” to the ballad, “He Is,” and then onto an orchestral interlude with “Spoksonat.” The track, “Mummy Dust,” is a catchy blend of everything. That track amps up the pace and, just when you think it’s a classic rock tune enhanced by gritty vocals, Ghost throws in the liturgical influences for good measure. Somewhat eclectic but all, now classic, Ghost, Meliora is a heavenly ride.

Whether recorded or live, be sure to catch an uplifting performance by Ghost soon!