Ghost Idols – No Shade Under A Dying Sun (2022)
For approximately one decade (give or take), three US-based musicians have crafted a sound that is heavy and gruff but with hints of fragility and vulnerability. These lads are Ghost Idols and from their self-titled debut EP (released in 2013) have become known as engaging, energetic and enthusiastic rockers in the LA music scene. This is my introduction to Ghost Idols, and honestly, I don’t know why I haven’t had the honour of coming across them before; however, I am not the only one whose head has been turned. Described as having symmetry in their seasoned unveiling (GroundFloorGo!), Ghost Idols has an evolved, honed and sophisticated sound. The latest addition to their discography is the album No Shade Under A Dying Sun.
Following their three-track EP Absent of Feeling, No Shade Under A Dying Sun is Ghost Idol’s debut album. Influenced by the likes of Black Sabbath, Cave In, Spotlights, Thin Lizzy and The Jesus Lizard, No Shade Under a Dying Sun mixes 70s rock-inspired music with post-hardcore into a contemporary melodic metal melting pot. Opening with ‘Friends Like These’, the Black Sabbath influence is highly evident, particularly in the richness of Joe Nathan’s vocals. I wouldn’t say he has the enigmatic intoxication of Ozzy, but a bold contemporariness exists in this old-school meet modern-day style creating something that is purely Ghost Idols.
Highlighting their innovation as artists, Ghost Idols moves from one genre to another in No Shade Under A Dying Sun. ‘Ruined Eyes’ brings in a steadier, slower movement as compared to the previous ‘Friends Like These’; as well as a leaning toward the 90s alt-rock style in ‘Absent of Feeling’. The thing is, while there is a genre-hopping design in No Shade Under A Dying Sun, the lads retain their heavy, hard-hitting, almost palpably grungy rock/metal sound throughout the eight tracks.
As I mentioned, Ghost Idols has a way of bringing nostalgic flairs to their rock sound while retaining a modern-day vibe – a familiar but fresh sound adding edginess to their music. Blasting with Joe Nathan’s vocals and guitar, Rob Arbuckle’s bass and guitar, and Christopher Dwyer’s pounding drums, No Shade Under A Dying Sun is a force of nature from the 70s rock-inspired ‘Ruined Eyes’ and ‘Friends Like These’ to the heavy metal ‘Carrion, My Wayward Sun’ and punk-rock tinged ‘Set The World Ablaze’ (potentially my favourite song of the album).
Oozing passion, power, dedication, some light vulnerability and a mature sophistication, No Shade Under A Dying Sun is a true force of nature. I cannot wait for more from this talented trio.
For more from Ghost Idols check out their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
