The recognizable and distinctive voice of Andy Biersack, or Andy Black, is back again with a new solo album, The Ghost of Ohio which will be released 12 April. If you’ve been following Andy Black for as long as I have, you started in the Knives and Pens era of Black Veil Brides and experienced many different vocals and musical styles with Black. However, The Ghost of Ohio might just be referred to as the red-headed step-child of Andy Black’s musical endeavors. Where is he going with this?
The album starts with an introductory song and “The Promise.” Right off the bat, the album showcases various piano keys, chimes, and drum beats that carry you into the songs on the album.
“Westwood Road” contains a very catching guitar strum reminding me of a blues guitar solo. Catchy lyrics and a good dancing vibe, “Westwood Road” is an exceptional first taste of the album and the first official single to be released.
“Know One” and “Soul Like Me” show off incredible indie-pop roots. The album seems to have taken these two tracks to a different place. They are shower-singing ready! So, grab that shampoo bottle and sing your heart out to the soapy bubble fans.
“The Wind & Spark” is perhaps my favorite on this album. Possibly it’s the beat or the sing-along easability, but track number six will be set on repeat for me when the album officially hits stores and streaming services.
“Heros We are” is maybe a track that I would imagine playing during a teen movie’s romance scene. Track number eight’s inspirational lyrics would fit nicely into my creative-writing playlist. I am sure that many of you like myself will agree.
Track number ten, “Heaven”, serves as the album’s ballad. The tempo is much slower and not what I would call dance-worthy. This track is heavy in its indie roots while staying close to the pop feel of the album. “Heaven” is the perfect track to enjoy while sipping on a nice iced caramel mocha latte.
The album wraps up with track number twelve, “Fire In My Mind.” A good track to end the set as it leaves a lasting impression. Whether it be with the EDM beats or the lyrics, its freeness makes it hard to forget.
Many of the tracks off The Ghost of Ohio contain catchy beats, guitar strums, and piano keys. In his second solo album, Andy Black deviated from the sounds of The Shadow Side. His hard rock roots collided with modern pop and club beats. Artistically, he is experimenting. With The Ghost of Ohio, Andy Black continues through his musical journey bringing the recognizable indie-pop melodies and tempo into his music. More than likely, this isn’t something fans expect from this artist with his history with the Black Veil Brides, but the intermixing of styles and genres makes this an enjoyable listening experience.
The Ghost of Ohio hits stores and streaming services 12 April. You can find Andy Black’s three released singles, “Westwood Road,” “Ghost of Ohio,” and “The Promise” on his YouTube channel or Spotify.
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-f5yQ7FJaylg9gbDHdcMEg
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/09NYzWfQlunWS3XBZFaDEC
