'Ghosts in the Fire' is the debut album from exceptional bluesy rock performer 'Mark Black' and his rock band 'The Trips'. It's a grower of an album and suits my thirst for a really clever, no strings attached rock album.
Hailing from the northern extremities of Donegal Mark Black has been carving out a career for sometime. In 2009 he released a whopper CD/DVD live album with full orchestra which included the best tracks from his first two solo albums. There was a clear bluesy feel to them albums, while they also showcased Mark's considerable guitar playing skills and songwriting. Fast forward to 2012 and 'Ghosts in the Fire' is very much a full band offering from Seamus Devenny on drums and Brendan McGlynn on bass and Mark on vocals and guitars. The sound is very much alternative rock while also clinging onto Mark's talents for intricate moments of quality. Think of a sound merging The Foo Fighters with the John Butler Trio.
Highlights include the mid album rock songs 'Immigrants Blues' and the single 'Leave Without a Trace'. The title track is very radio friendly and also a clear highlight. Check out the video of 'Ghosts in the Fire' below. For me the best song is the opening track 'Shining Star' which sets the tempo with it's grungie sound.
'Ghosts in the Fire' gets better with every listen and it's a really good album while not exactly what I'd call essential listening.
Mark Black & The Trips - Ghosts in the Fire [8 out of 12]
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