BIO
Roam Like Ghosts is an acoustic trio that blends alternative, indie, folk, and Americana genres, with emotionally charged lyrics that have led to their sound being dubbed "Emoacana." The band was formed in 2017 by singer-songwriter Mathew Daugherty (Reston, VA) and guitarist-songwriter Bucky Fairfax (Cary, NC). Bassist Bobby DeRosa (Haymarket, VA) joined as a touring and studio musician in 2018, becoming a full-time member in 2023.
Known for their "haunting" and "deeply reflective" sound, Roam Like Ghosts creates a space for introspection in an uncertain world. Through delicate guitar arrangements and emotionally rich lyrics, the band delivers an intimate and personal musical experience, offering a poetic exploration of life's emotional struggles that resonates deeply with listeners.
The band's sound has evolved while staying true to its acoustic roots, masterfully blending the reflective warmth of Americana with the raw emotional depth of alternative rock. Their live shows create an immersive experience, bringing emotional themes to life with a raw yet soothing presence that resonates with fans of both alternative and Americana music.
Roam Like Ghosts' third album, 'Church', delves deeper into themes of self-reflection, connection, and transformation. This new release expands on their acoustic foundation with atmospheric production and a diverse array of songs, drawing inspiration from indie and alternative genres as well as personal life experiences.
Previous releases, including 'Yesterday and the Day Before' (2017) and '...to that place you call home' (2021), have been praised for their introspective sound. Like their earlier work, 'Church' (2024) was recorded with producer Dick Hodgin (Hootie & the Blowfish, Cravin' Melon, Clay Aiken, Corrosion of Conformity, Lynyrd Skynyrd) at Osceola Recording Studios in Raleigh, NC.
Roam Like Ghosts proves that music can be both delicate and powerful, personal and universal. Their songs, steeped in themes of love, loss, hope, and transformation, invite listeners to pause, reflect, and feel. 'Church' continues this journey, delivering a sound that is intimate, reflective, and dynamic, further refining their blend of acoustic-driven storytelling with an alternative edge.
SHORT BIO
Roam Like Ghosts is an acoustic trio blending alternative, indie, folk, and Americana into a unique sound they call "Emoacana." Formed in 2017 by singer-songwriter Mathew Daugherty and guitarist Bucky Fairfax, the group was joined by bassist Bobby DeRosa in 2018, who became a full-time member in 2023. Their music is known for its emotionally charged lyrics and haunting sound, offering a reflective exploration of life's struggles.
The band’s sound combines the warmth of Americana with the emotional depth of alternative rock, creating intimate and immersive live performances. Through delicate guitar arrangements and heartfelt lyrics, Roam Like Ghosts invites listeners to pause and reflect on themes of love, loss, and transformation.
Their third album, 'Church' (2024), builds on their acoustic foundation while expanding into more atmospheric production, exploring self-reflection and connection. With previous albums like 'Yesterday and the Day Before' (2017) and '...to that place you call home' (2021), Roam Like Ghosts continues to evolve their distinct blend of acoustic-driven storytelling and emotional resonance.
DISCOGRAPHY
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the Single - "Death and Me" (MP3)
"CHURCH" is our most ambitious album yet. With these 10 new tracks, we’ve raised the stakes and gone bigger than ever—because, for us, bigger is always better. This album took over a year and a half to complete, and we couldn't be prouder of the result. "Every song is a piece of us, a reflection on what we’ve learned and how we’ve grown. CHURCH will be available for pre-release on Bandcamp on November 15, 2024, with the full release on all streaming and download platforms on November 22, 2024.
"CHURCH" was recorded at Osceola Recording Studios in Raleigh, NC with Dick Hodgin (Hootie and The Blowfish, Cravin' Melon, Clay Aiken, Corrosion Of Conformity, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Johnny Quest) at the helm, engineering and producing.
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the Single - "Disappear" (MP3)
"...to that place you call home" was started in February 2020 as an EP, but COVID shutdowns and delays allowed for more songs to be written and finalized and an 11 song album was completed at the end of December 2020. The album was pre-released on Bandcamp on January 1, 2021 and released on February 26th, 2021 on all other major digital platforms. The album has a bigger sound with more instrumentation, musical guests, while maintaining the acoustic feel. "We can honestly say, this is some of the best work that we've done yet."
"...to that place you call home" was recorded at Osceola Recording Studios in Raleigh, NC with Dick Hodgin (Hootie and The Blowfish, Cravin' Melon, Clay Aiken, Corrosion Of Conformity, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Johnny Quest) at the helm, engineering and producing.
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the Single - "Smile" (MP3)
"Yesterday and the Day Before" was released on October 20th, 2017, digitally. "With the popularity of digital media and everyone listening to everything through a digital device, whether downloading or streaming, we didn't see the purpose for manufactoring tons of CD's that a listener would just burn onto their computer or device. Plus it made for less things to bring to shows." For almost a year, the duo went back and forth, crossing state lines to write and record this album. "We are pretty happy with outcome and hope that everyone else is too."
"Yesterday and the Day Before" was recorded at Osceola Recording Studios in Raleigh, NC with Dick Hodgin (Hootie and The Blowfish, Cravin' Melon, Clay Aiken, Corrosion Of Conformity, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Johnny Quest) at the helm, engineering and producing.
REVIEWS
"This record is compelling, not just for its music (though there’s plenty to admire there) but as a study in its lyrics, their impact, and their connection to the listener. What do I love most? This album doesn’t try to be “for everyone.” It’s specific. It resonates with those willing to listen. This is an album for those searching for themselves amidst the noise."
For the rest - Indie Boulevard
"Great energy and BIG vocals on the opening track “Death And Me.” It’s tight stuff when it comes right down to it…not all that far removed from something you’d find smack dab in the middle of sounds you love in The Black Crowes and Soul Asylum…somewhere in between all that."
For the rest - Sleeping Bag Studios
"Church is an ambitious album. Every track feels purposeful, each note and lyric carefully placed to invite the listener into a shared experience of vulnerability and growth. The understated production allows Roam Like Ghosts to showcase their raw talent and emotional sincerity."
For the rest - UNXIGNED
"“Church” is a uniquely impactful alt rock album by Roam Like Ghosts. Each song has an intimate and acoustic backbone, built up by rocking drums, mellow grooves, and powerful guitars. The album is aptly named, because Roam Like Ghosts creates an almost spiritual experience for the listener through the vulnerability and connection offered in these songs. "
For the rest - Rising Artists
"What sets CHURCH apart is its meticulous balance of atmosphere and emotional depth. The trio’s synergy shines through each track, with rich acoustic instrumentation and poetic lyricism painting vivid emotional landscapes. Whether through the warmth of fingerstyle guitars or the introspection of their harmonies, Roam Like Ghosts offers a sonic experience that feels both timeless and immediate."
For the rest - Apricot Magazine
"CHURCH is spacious, Americana-glazed, sky-reaching indie rock that lives and succeeds through its own meaningful musical merits. CHURCH is the real, and real-feeling, deal, and I can’t praise this band’s output enough. If you’re looking for something catchy, authentic, urgent, electric, acoustic, and absolutely human-focused..."
For the rest - The Ark of Music
"The best part of their music is the energy and the vibrations that come out of. Their soundscapes are marked by the will and passion to play, explore, grow, and thrive, both as humans and musicians. The trio have just released their latest album, ‘CHURCH’, a collection that announces the incredible range and depth of the band."
For the rest - Apollo's Harp (India)
"It’s simply an amazing project that screams good quality from all sides. Whether it’s the captivating influences of Americana music or the introspective lyrics, Roam Like Ghosts truly reaches the best of what they’ve done before and transforms it into something grand."
For the rest - Music Review World
"Right from the start, the fast and spirited style showcased by these three talented musicians grabs your attention. Coupled with expressive singing and anthemic melodies, the individual tracks have an absolutely captivating quality. In addition to rich guitars and dynamic drums, it’s the powerful vocals that add versatile dimensions and bring the production to life." (Translated from Deutsch)
For the rest (in Deutsch) - New Indie Radar
"‘The Weight’, is a profound musical endeavor that seamlessly marries the heart of alt-country with the soul of Americana. Released on November 22, 2024, this track resonates with the universal contemplation of life’s ephemeral nature."
For the rest - Songplode
"Shimmering as a bright sonic tapestry, each instrument (including Daugherty’s vocals) adds a particular spark to the single. A bold bass shimmers with bright blue light, while the soaring guitars glitter in a bright red shine. The drums peep with softer green hues and the vocals zig zag across like a silvery ribbon. Kaleidoscopic, while still keeping a simplistic ambience, ‘The Weight’ is a mish-mash of sound and emotion.
For the rest - The Other Side
“The Weight” shines because of its straightforward composition and genuine delivery. This song achieves its impact without depending on excessive production techniques or unnecessary musical flourishes. The song gains its power through rich storytelling elements combined with multiple instrument layers...
For the rest - Falcodice
The Weight dives into the universal theme of grappling with mortality and reflecting on life's joys, regrets, and challenges.
For the rest - Savoy Truffle Tunes
Mortality. Regret. The relentless ticking of the clock. The Weight is a reflection on all of it. The things that grind you down, the mistakes that never quite fade, and the small hope that, at the end of it all, your love was enough.
For the rest - Groover City
Roam Like Ghosts craft a deeply introspective and emotionally charged single that cuts straight to the core of human experience. Rooted in acoustic-driven alt-rock, the song offers a melancholic yet beautiful meditation on mortality, love, and the things that shape us.
For the rest - Loop Solitaire
With clear and determined vocals and rich acoustic guitar work, the artists from North Carolina build their song in a way that also appeals to fans of sophisticated Americana folk.
For the rest - Berlin on Air (Germany)
“The Weight” is an introspective single from Roam Like Ghosts, a band known for their emotive and thought-provoking music. This song is a standout track that delves into the universal theme of mortality, reflection, and the human experience.
For the rest - Korliblog
"What stands out is the song’s atmosphere—the way it swells and recedes, creating a space that feels both expansive and personal. Roam Like Ghosts captures a moment of vulnerability, inviting the listener to reflect on their own emotions. With “Not Giving Up on You,” the band creates a sonic landscape where love and perseverance shine through."
For the rest - Good Music Radar
"Roam Like Ghosts’ latest single, “Death and Me,” is a stirring anthem of hope and self-discovery that pairs heartfelt lyricism with a dynamic instrumental backdrop....Musically, “Death and Me” strikes a balance between acoustic intimacy and an alternative edge. The interplay between the rhythm section and the thoughtful lyrics gives the song an emotional depth that’s both comforting and empowering."
For the rest - Artistrack
"Death and Me", the latest single from Roam Like Ghosts, addresses the fight against addiction and the search for freedom in the midst of darkness."(Translated from Portuguese)
For the rest (in Portuguese) - Roadie Music
"CHURCH by Roam Like Ghosts delivers an intricate journey of self-discovery. A meditation on faith, doubt, and the human condition. It’s a haunting and beautiful record that will stay with you long after the final note fades. For fans of introspective indie music with a touch of Emo and Americana, CHURCH is a must-listen."
For the rest - Indie Band Guru
"They dish out some solid Americana on the melancholy anthem “The Weight” and the heartfelt ballad “Not Giving up on You”. The acoustic lament “Futures” shows their folkier side. Then the band cranks up their amplifiers to 11, as they teeter precariously between alternative rock and outlaw country on the barn-burner “Casual Conversations About Serious Situations."
For the rest - The Static Dive
"Mixing elements of Americana and alternative rock in their work, Roam Like Ghosts move forward, offering beautiful melodies, lyrics with deep meaning and raw rock energy."
For the rest - Indie Dock Music Blog
"What sets “Church” apart is its careful balance of confession and invitation. While many albums in similar territory might preach, Roam Like Ghosts creates space for personal interpretation. "
For the rest - B-Side Guys
"'Church' is a testament to the band’s commitment to authenticity and emotional connection, cementing their place in the American alternative scene. (translated from Spanish)"
For the rest - LACAVERNA.NET (Mexico)
"The vocals are a standout feature throughout the record. They soar with incredible range and passion, carrying the listener through moments of vulnerability and resilience. Tracks like the opener “Death and Me” and “So Hard To Say Goodbye” highlight this vocal dynamism, with melodies that feel both intimate and grand. Whether in hushed tones or sweeping crescendos, the vocals embody the emotional core of the album."
For the rest - We Write About Music
"Roam like Ghosts manages to put together tracks of idyllic songs that present an optimistic look of sorts while highlighting the darkest moments one going through the throes of a daily life can go through if not careful— themes like struggles with addiction, the loss of a loved one or a person in close circles and one’s idea of self-discovery through routines and bell curves and wildcards thrown one’s way in this crazy world we call life."
For the rest - APSI Magazine
"‘Church’ shows they are still brimming with plenty of fresh and captivating ideas in which to unearth. Moving with this rich and subtle elegance across all ten tracks, they are certainly looking to leave a lasting impression on the scene with this one."
For the rest - Return of Rock
“The Weight, a soul-stirring track that delves into the universal experience of confronting mortality and reflecting on life’s triumphs, regrets, and burdens. With its emotionally charged lyrics, evocative melodies, and profound themes, The Weight cements Roam Like Ghosts’ reputation for crafting music that speaks to the heart and soul."
For the rest - Haymai (Australia)
“...this is a beautiful new tune that features powerful vocal flows over an inviting and well-produced instrumental...""
For the rest - Tape Ranger
“This poignant track explores themes of mortality, introspection, and the emotional burdens we carry. The melancholic melodies, layered harmonies, and introspective lyricism make this song an instant emotional classic...
For the rest - Lost In The Manor
Daugherty’s haunting vocals deliver a comforting experience so that every word resonates as personal and relatable. The combination of his voice with Bucky Fairfax’s detailed guitar melodies and Bobby DeRosa’s stable bass produces a sound that simultaneously comforts and challenges listeners...
For the rest - Melomani
Their recent single “The Weight” is a poignant jam that blends elements of soft rock, alt-folk, and Americana. Twangy guitar melodies, smooth bass, and vivid drums immerse the listener in a thoughtful soundscape. Mathew’s vocals soar along the instrumentation with an invigorating presence. The song’s lyrics explore humanity’s collective struggle to cope with mortality and life’s challenges...
For the rest - Senocular Media
The Weight dives into the universal theme of grappling with mortality and reflecting on life's joys, regrets, and challenges.
For the rest - Illustrate Magazine
"Few songs have the power to stop you in your tracks and make you reflect on life, love, and the passage of time. Roam Like Ghosts’ latest single, “The Weight,” does exactly that."
For the rest - aKtmusic.com
"And still, beneath that weight exists the silent hope that, regardless of everything, our dear ones will understand the extent of our affection. As the song advances, the arrangement slowly becomes more intricate, adding layers of instruments that enhance the overall sound without overshadowing the main melody. "
For the rest - Dulaxi
"Keeping in line with the theme of self reflection and transformation that underscores the album, Death and Me explores the ephemerality of life. The swinging, upbeat rhythm of the drumming coupled with the radiant, rich guitar riffs forms an immersive, uplifting atmosphere. The expressive, passion-filled vocals lay down catchy, charismatic melodies in a way that pleasantly contrasts the heaviness and depth of the theme, making the song all the more addictive."
For the rest - Lost in the Manor(UK)
"The fortified-with-fortitude anthem goes far deeper than your average baseless feel-good hit, compassionately reaching out beyond the black clouds with glimmers of hope and hints that Roam Like Ghosts have been known to keep a fair few black dogs for company in their time."
For the rest - A&R Factory
"Exploring more of that broad and jangled alt-rock aesthetic they have been earning a strong reputation for, ‘Death And Me’ makes for a dazzling return to form for them. With its driven texture and soaring hooks layered throughout, they are certainly looking to turn some heads with this one."
For the rest - Return of Rock(blog)
"With profoundly eloquent vocals that seep into your mind and make you imagine taking a trip away with that special human in your life, to hearing such intricately meshed guitar sequences that make you gasp in excitement, this is a truly fine song with so much to like inside its caring core."
For the rest - A&R Factory
For the rest - Sleeping Bag Studios
For the rest - Divide and Conquer
For the rest - The Static Dive
"They obviously know their sound and have created a gem. I said it before and I’ll say it again, easily the best album I’ve heard so far in 2021."
For the rest - Indie Music Plus
For the rest - The Ark of Music
For the rest - Indie Band Guru
For the rest - We Write About Music
"The track feels like a combination of folk and indie-rock, achieving a fantastic combination of various genre definitions and sonic aesthetics."
For the rest - ArtistRack
For the rest - Indie Music Plus
The latter track, “Smile,” is a single waiting in the wings thanks to its beautifully layered harmonies and musical instruments creating magnificent melodies."
For the rest - Indie Rock Cafe
For the rest - Divide and Conquer
For the rest - Music Connection Magazine
For the rest - Drooble
For the rest - I AM THE INDUSTRY
For the rest - Ark of Music
For the rest - Artistrack
INTERVIEWS
You can check it out here - Rising Artists
You can check it out here - The Other Side Reviews
