2 years ago I experienced Gungor in person for the first time. Since then their album “Beautiful Things” has been in heavy rotation in my personal playlist. One would think that listening to a band for two years straight would get old, but I’ve been waiting and wanting more. My ears, head, heart, and soul can’t get enough.

The journey continues with Ghosts Upon The Earth. This is a breath-taking effort in the evolution of one of the most creative and innovative writers of our day. I have always been into Michael Gungor, but these days he and his collective are the image and definition of inspiration. Ghost Upon The Earth takes listers through some amazing landscapes. I am 4 full listens in, and can’t stop. That’s saying something if you’re anything like me. I get bored with the same melodies, progressions, and production. This will leave you wanting more. I’m gushing, I know. Wait till you hear this piece of work. And it is just that. A work of art. The creativity begins with the time signatures. Beginning right off the top with the opening track “Let There Be Light” all the way to the final track “Every Breath”. These tracks have several moments of magic and aren’t really for casual listening.

The skilled listener will be delighted. Don’t be looking for a commercial sound when listening to Ghosts Upon The Earth. Be it beautiful, melodic, and rich in sounds and lyric, one will not be hearing much of this on your “safe” Christian radio station, but maybe Indie stations that encourages their listeners to have an open mind and a diverse musical palette.

You will sense hints of many unique sounds on this effort. Though we will  hear sounds from the likes of Jonsi, Sufjan Stevens, and even Nickel Creek, I believe we will not be able to put a label on this album; It’s too complex and interesting. Gungor’s Twitter bio line reads “We are a liturgical post-rock band. We believe that art is sacred and try to make music that reflects that.” It is as true of a bio line than I’ve ever read. There is a sacred encounter within this musical experience. It’s emotional, entertaining, impressive, artistic, and even abrasive (in a good way).

The new Gungor release hits the market on 9/20/11, but is available for pre-release NOW. This will be one of my favorite albums of 2011… and probably 2012.

Watch the EPK here.

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