Giving up the Ghost by John Laprade: EP Review

by Damien Reid January 24, 2023

January 24, 2023

Giving up the Ghost by John Laprade: EP Review

Powerful and moving is what I graciously categorize John Laprade’s EP “Giving up the Ghost”. Composed of a genre mix of Indie and a bit of Country rock, every piece on this collection has excellent instrumental synergy and vocal flow.

Out of all the turmoil in life, I’ve always steered clear of complications arising from hearing music. It’s the last place anyone wishes to be when they can’t wrap their head around something. Evidently, the soothing nature of John’s EP “Giving up the Ghost” was the exact opposite and I was pleasantly surprised. The melodic wave initiated with the acoustically driven ode in “Landlocked Lighthouse.” Accompanied by a stringed section and you’ve got a truly emotional tale in development. Sometimes all you need is a good tune with an easy-listening aura about it and this is where the musician’s creativity truly shines.

From my point of view, the music of John Laprade pertains to the melodic healing derived from the roots of soft rock. The EP’s title track “Giving up the Ghost” is an epic rock piece with a force to be reckoned with. An arrangement with thunderous drums, energetic guitars oozing with distortion, and a sensational vocal section that is chant-worthy make up this fantastic track’s essence! The EP has an enjoyable cadence. Aside from the upbeat pieces we arrived at our final destination in “Cardboard Boxes.” It’s a heartwarming number with a tragic tone involving cello pieces and a piano arrangement for a fitting sendoff.