Here are some nice words (and a nice pic !) by Jose Zegarra Holder, who directed the famous Romantic Warriors trilogy, which explores the Prog music history (and beyond !).
"Ghost Rhythms, the French band known for their captivating blend of progressive rock and jazz, has consistently delivered an enchanting musical experience throughout their discography. From their early beginnings to their latest releases, Ghost Rhythms’ distinct sound can be attributed to the creative prowess of their drummer Xavier Gélard and keyboardist Camille Petit, who not only crafted but also arranged the majority of the music. Their contributions are pivotal, with the drums and piano taking center stage throughout the recordings. The prominence of these instruments lends a chamber music quality to their sound, creating an atmosphere that resonates more strongly with the chamber style than traditional jazz, although elements of both genres are undeniably present. This fusion of styles adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue to Ghost Rhythms’ music, making it a truly captivating and unique listening experience.
Their debut album, “Ghost Rhythms” introduced listeners to their mesmerizing soundscapes. With intricate rhythms, ethereal melodies, and unexpected time signatures, the album set the stage for Ghost Rhythms’ musical exploration. Tracks like “Vir de saint François” and “Arcane 17” showcased their ability to create atmospheric compositions that transport listeners to otherworldly realms.
As Ghost Rhythms continued to evolve, their sophomore release, “Sept Cercles,” elevated their sonic palette to new heights. The album seamlessly combined elements of progressive rock, fusion, and avant-garde jazz. Tracks such as “Paloma” and “Sept Cercles” demonstrated the band’s prowess in crafting intricate arrangements, with dynamic shifts and improvisational sections that kept listeners on the edge of their seats.
In their third album, “Madeleine”, a two-hour double album, Ghost Rhythms further expanded their musical horizons. In a bold and innovative move, they set out to create an alternate soundtrack to the iconic Alfred Hitchcock film, “Vertigo.” The band took a distinctive approach by first composing the music, allowing it to organically unfold, and subsequently fitting the tunes to the corresponding scenes of the movie.
I thoroughly enjoy the music in “Madeleine”. The fast-paced piano accompanied by various sounds creates an exhilarating experience that I love, sometimes depicting a dark and eerie atmosphere supported by horns with piano as the focal point, and in other sections I’m particularly drawn to the excellent drums and bass, supported by the piano and accordion. The interplay of these instruments adds depth and richness to the track, which I find highly enjoyable. The addition of the cello brings a brightening effect that truly captivates me.
“Imaginary Mountains “ is their fourth album, recorded in lockdown during the pandemic, with drums added at the end. This album is a remarkable work showcasing a delightful large ensemble. Throughout the tracks, keyboards, guitar, violin, cello, woodwinds, bass, and harpsichord are prominently featured, while drums add rhythmic depth to most compositions. Additional players contribute vocals, and occasional appearances of guitars, piano, and flute add a beautiful touch.
Ghost Rhythms’ most recent offering, “Spectral Music”, published in conjunction with Cuneiform Records, represents a culmination of their musical journey thus far. This album explores intricate harmonies, interplay between instruments, and a refined sense of dynamics. It presents a clearly defined aesthetic that remains consistent throughout the album: powerful bass lines, stylish wind instruments, expressive harmonic changes, subtle world music influences, and an impressive array of intricate odd-time polyrhythms that never cease to dazzle.
Ghost Rhythms’ commitment to pushing musical boundaries while maintaining a strong foundation of groove and rhythm ensures a captivating and dynamic listening experience.
Overall, I have a strong affinity for the music of Ghost Rhythms. Throughout their discography, Ghost Rhythms have consistently pushed the boundaries of progressive music, seamlessly blending genres and defying conventions. The interplay of instruments, atmospheric elements, and the skillful use of piano create a captivating and enjoyable listening experience that resonates deeply with me. Highly recommended!!"
Thanks Jose !
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