B-Side Guys

In the heart of musical transformation, sometimes addition creates multiplication. Roam Like Ghosts’ evolution from duo to trio bears this out on “Church,” releasing November 22, 2024. This third album finds the band crafting their most expansive work yet, with Bobby DeRosa’s bass bringing new dimensions to the established chemistry between vocalist Mathew Daugherty and guitarist Bucky Fairfax.

Working with producer Dick Hodgin (whose credits include Hootie & the Blowfish and Corrosion of Conformity), the band has created 40 minutes of music that invites rather than insists. Like its namesake, “Church” creates space for personal interpretation while providing the framework for transformation.

The album opens with “Death and Me,” where Daugherty’s vocals soar over DeRosa’s grounding basslines and Fairfax’s textured guitar work. It’s an immediate demonstration of how the trio’s expanded lineup allows for greater musical exploration without sacrificing intimacy.

“Hasta Luego” ventures into unexpected territory, with Chad Barger’s Hammond organ and Alex Fioto’s trumpet creating warm layers of sound that showcase the band’s willingness to push beyond genre boundaries. The Latin-influenced rhythms feel both natural and adventurous, suggesting new paths forward.

“The Weight” captures the universal experience of carrying life’s burdens while searching for light. Here, the band’s acoustic roots shine through even as they embrace a fuller sound. Daugherty’s lyrics find poetry in everyday struggles, while Fairfax’s guitar work adds subtle commentary throughout.

“Futures” and “Not Giving Up on You” form the album’s emotional core, each exploring different aspects of hope and perseverance. The arrangements breathe and build, demonstrating the band’s growing confidence in letting songs develop at their own pace.

“Casual Conversations About Serious Situations” might win the award for best title, but its real triumph lies in how it captures life’s contradictions through melody and rhythm. The interplay between instruments creates a sense of conversation that mirrors the song’s themes.

“Blame Game” reveals the band’s gift for dynamics, with guest drummer Bill Eagin adding subtle complexity to the rhythm section. The production shines particularly bright here, with Hodgin helping to craft space for each element to resonate fully.

“So Hard to Say Goodbye” explores the bittersweet nature of endings with grace and understanding, while “Thumbelina” adds magical realism to the band’s storytelling arsenal, enhanced by Julia Savavici’s ethereal violin.

The album closes with “Somnumbra Atra,” an instrumental piece that serves as a perfect denouement. Here, the band demonstrates their ability to communicate emotion without words, creating a meditative space that allows listeners to reflect on their own journey through the album.

What makes “Church” special is its commitment to creating sanctuary without demanding doctrine. The band has crafted songs that offer comfort and challenge in equal measure, inviting listeners to find their own meaning in the music’s depths.

The production throughout maintains perfect balance between polish and authenticity. Hodgin’s veteran ear helps capture both the power and nuance of the trio’s expanded sound, while numerous guest contributors add color and depth without overshadowing the core ensemble.

At its heart, “Church” is an album about transformation – both the band’s own evolution and the changes we all face in life. From its thoughtful sequencing to its careful arrangements, every element serves the larger purpose of creating space for reflection and growth.

For anyone seeking music that combines artistic ambition with emotional authenticity, “Church” delivers. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most profound spiritual experiences happen not through proclamation but through the shared experience of honest artistry.

As Roam Like Ghosts continues their journey, “Church” stands as both milestone and invitation. It’s an album that rewards repeated visits, revealing new layers of meaning with each listen while maintaining its power to move hearts and minds.