Album Review: Sky Is Falling by Ghost Town – A Kiwi Rock Gem That’ll Haunt Your Playlist
Alright, buckle up, folks. We’re diving into Sky Is Falling, the 2017 alt-rock banger from New Zealand’s very own Ghost Town. Released under Ghost Records NZ Ltd., this album is like that one friend who shows up uninvited but ends up being the life of the party. It's raw, it’s moody, and honestly? It’s kinda unforgettable.
First off, let’s talk about the sound. This isn’t your polished, overproduced stadium rock nonsense—it’s gritty, with just enough edge to keep things interesting. Producer Kerry Furlong (who also wore the hats of engineer and mixer) clearly knows how to balance chaos and clarity without making it sound like a mess. Kudos to Andy Baldwin for mastering too; the tracks hit hard without blowing out your eardrums.
Now, onto the songs. There are eight in total, each packing its own punch, but two stood out to me like neon signs in a foggy alley: “Stolen Kisses” and “Ghost Town.”
“Stolen Kisses” kicks things off with a bassline so smooth you’d think Dan Salmon stole it from some secret funk vault. The track has this sultry vibe, like sneaking around after curfew, heart racing, hoping no one catches you. But here’s the kicker—it doesn’t take itself too seriously. There’s a playful swagger to it, almost as if the band is winking at you through the speakers. You can practically hear them saying, “Yeah, we know we’re good.”
Then there’s “Ghost Town,” which feels like the emotional gut-punch of the album. It starts slow, almost hesitant, before building into this thunderous crescendo that hits you right in the feels. Lyrically, it’s haunting—like staring at an abandoned house and wondering what stories its walls could tell. By the time the chorus kicks in, you’re hooked. It’s not just a song; it’s an experience. And yeah, maybe I got a little misty-eyed listening to it. No judgment.
The rest of the album keeps the momentum going. Tracks like “Driving Wheel” and “Too High” bring catchy hooks and killer riffs, while “Make It To The Other Side” serves up some introspective vibes that stick with you long after the final note fades. Oh, and shoutout to Ian Powell for the photography—it perfectly captures the brooding energy of the whole project.
Here’s the thing about Sky Is Falling: it’s not trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it leans into what makes rock music great—raw emotion, killer instrumentation, and lyrics that make you think (or at least nod along). Sure, there are moments where it stumbles slightly, but those imperfections only add character. Like a scuffed-up leather jacket, it’s better because of them.
So, would I recommend this album? Absolutely. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or nursing a cup of coffee on a rainy day, Sky Is Falling has something for everyone. Just don’t blame me if “Stolen Kisses” gets stuck in your head for days.
Final thought: If Ghost Town ever decides to tour again, I’m buying tickets immediately—even if it means selling my left kidney. These Kiwis know how to craft a tune that sticks, and Sky Is Falling proves they’re more than just another name in the alt-rock scene. Now excuse me while I hit replay… again.
Rating: 8/10
