GhostImpera

Ghost have never been ones to fall into line with musical conventions, nor have they shown any interest in simply resting on their laurels (that of course, would be the easier alternative).

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On the contrary, the band seem to embrace the inherent uncertainty that comes with the territory of being innovators and thrive when operating in that state of uninhibited creativity. It is for this reason that Ghost have been able to continually reinvent themselves and remain at the forefront of the hard rock/heavy metal genre.

The creative approach taken by Ghost on their 5th full-length album Impera is no different. The band have once again succeeded in defining what a metal record is supposed to sound like, as well as creating perhaps their most ambitious and remarkable piece of work to date. Through a stunning collection of 12 songs, Ghost have moved away from the purely secular themes of their earlier records towards exploring broader philosophical concepts, including the rise and fall of empires. Enabled by an expertly curated track list, the record manages to navigate seamlessly through a diverse array of musical styles and influences without ever feeling disconnected or contrived.

On Impera, Ghost have allowed themselves to grow as songwriters and musicians, without losing that distinct sound that makes them sound undeniably ‘Ghost’—a certified masterpiece.

Imperium opens the album with layered guitars, soaring over the top of staccato drum rolls that make it feel like Ghost is bringing in a grand procession. The twin powerhouses of Kaisarion and Spillways immediately propel the album into another stratosphere on the back of ascending guitar passages and spirited vocals. The album single’s Call Me Little Sunshine and Hunter’s Moon show off the band’s pop sensibilities, while the thundering stomp of Watcher In The Sky and frantic energy of Twenties affirms that the band rocks just as hard as they ever have. In a song that was built for stadium performances, lighters will wave in the air during the hauntingly beautiful Darkness At The Heart Of My Love, before the mosh pit comes alive with the euphoric Griftwood. On Respite On The Spitalfields, the album finds resolution with one final triumphant electric guitar riff, surrounded by a breathtaking soundscape of elaborate instrumentation. On Impera, Ghost have allowed themselves to grow as songwriters and musicians, without losing that distinct sound that makes them sound undeniably ‘Ghost’—a certified masterpiece.

STANDOUT TRACKS: Kaisarion, Spillways, Call Me Little Sunshine
STICK THIS NEXT TO: Iron Maiden, Opeth, Black Sabbath