Mike Flood & Co. - ghosts

Mike Flood & Co.

Ghosts
self-released; 2014

3.5 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Mike Flood & Co. is a Chicago-based band that recently released a four-song EP entitled Ghosts. It’s well-written music that has hints of country twang and commercially accessible pop music. The music is warm and usually induces a sense of joy despite the slight melancholy that is beneath the surface. Furthermore, not one particular component seems to outshine the other. It’s clear to me that the band puts the song above all else and composed the music with listeners in mind. 

The EP opens with “Love Like Mine,” which combines acoustic and electric lead guitars, bass and drums with the vocals carrying the main melody. The band’s setup and delivery is pretty straightforward and doesn’t go off the tracks in terms of traditional songwriting. The song goes down easy and is something that most people will be able to enjoy. It bursts with optimism and energy, which made it an ideal opener.

The second song “Ghosts” is a bit slower and contains melancholy that lingers on listeners’ ears. I was immediately attracted to the technically impressive opening guitar riff. As the song progresses a lead guitar, bass and organ begin to organically make their way into the mix. “Miles” is a solid song that brings a lot of visceral energy to the table. The bright lead slide guitar is an integral component of the song that makes it explode during the chorus. 

Ghosts closes with arguably the highlight of the EP called “Where Do You Go?” What immediately caught my attention was the acoustic guitar. The melody on the guitar was intricate, original and induced a sense of nostalgia.I really enjoyed the first half of the song, which relied on nuances and a good vocal melody. Around the two-minute mark the band goes a little too grandiose for my liking. Nonetheless they don’t stay there too long and they revert to the ear-catching guitar work.

Mike Flood & Co. isn't trying to break any barriers or make you do a double take when listening to their music. Ghosts delivers four songs that were enjoyable from beginning to end. 

Become A Fan

official website