While artists no doubt benefit from greater exposure and a regular cycle of gigging and new music, an air of mystery is no bad thing. For Gaze is Ghost elusiveness permeates not only her music but the aura around it. She has now returned with a new track and brings with it the promise of a new album in April.
‘Selkie Skin’ is her first release since ‘Feather and Bone’ and it doesn’t disappoint. Drawing from the seagoing Celtic mythological creature the track is a beautiful and enthralling piece of music built on initially quiet and sombre but slowly rising piano and Northern Irish born, Edinburgh living Laura McGarrigle’s delicate vocals. The wash of harmonies, percussion and guitar feedback that fall around the song’s backbone heighten the song’s mystical atmosphere.
Gaze is Ghost has been less quiet behind the scenes since her first and last album ‘Plume’. She joined the collective and arts label Colliding Lines last year while she has also written a musical inspired by Belfast poet-laureate Sinead Morrisey and produced a contemporary dance and sound art piece named Time Now for Ghosts.
The impending release of a second full length is one to watch out for in April. In 2013, her debut ‘Plume’ showcased the range of her songwriting talent, the long awaited follow up won’t be one to miss.
