When the clock struck midnight on June 20, 2024, the post-hardcore scene welcomed a hauntingly beautiful addition to its repertoire: “Burial Gown” by I Am No Longer A Ghost. Emerging from the shadows of the UK’s underground music scene, Thomas Eatherton, the creative force behind I Am No Longer A Ghost, has crafted an enigmatic piece that feels both familiar and utterly original. Part of a 13-track debut self-titled album themed around Halloween, this song sets the stage for a musical journey that delves deep into themes of rebirth, necromancy, and the ethereal.
Eatherton, known for his eclectic influences and multifaceted musicianship, has delivered an album that defies easy categorization. “Burial Gown” is a prime example of this genre-blending mastery, combining the visceral energy of post-hardcore with the atmospheric elements of black metal, reminiscent of bands like Svalbard and Deafheaven. The song’s layered soundscape and raw emotional intensity make it a standout track, promising listeners a sonic experience that is as cathartic as it is chilling.
The production, handled by Peter Waterman of Longcroft Recording, ensures that every element of the track shines. Waterman’s expertise, coupled with the mastering prowess of Jack Shirley (known for his work with Deafheaven and Joyce Manor), results in a polished yet unrestrained sound. The instrumentation is a rollercoaster of dynamic contrasts—crushing riffs give way to ethereal interludes, while Eatherton’s vocals oscillate between impassioned screams and haunting melodies.
Eatherton’s ability to fuse disparate musical styles is a testament to his versatility and vision. His background in both indie-folk and heavy music shines through, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. Fans of his previous collaborations with artists like Bry and performances alongside bands like A Day To Remember and Skindred will find much to admire in this latest endeavor.
As anticipation builds for the full album release on October 25, 2024, “Burial Gown” serves as a tantalizing preview of what’s to come. The track’s blend of post-hardcore aggression and black metal ambiance, coupled with its thematic complexity, makes it a must-listen for fans of genre-defying music. Eatherton’s journey from a session musician to the driving force behind I Am No Longer A Ghost is a story of artistic evolution and unyielding passion—a journey that is just beginning to unfold.
In the ever-evolving landscape of post-hardcore and beyond, “Burial Gown” is a bold statement. It’s a call to embrace the darkness and find beauty within it, to celebrate the ghosts that linger and the new beginnings they herald. I Am No Longer A Ghost has arrived, and with it, a new chapter in the book of post-hardcore.