Imagine a world where you glimpse your spectral form, a constant reminder of a love lost and a life forever altered. This is the melancholic terrain charted by Minneapolis rock legend Mark Mallman in his latest single, “Seen My Own Ghost.” Mallman, a self-proclaimed devotee of 80s sounds, weaves a tapestry of alternative rock with a distinctly retro flair, welcoming listeners into a world of heartache and haunting memories. “Seen My Own Ghost” was released on March 1, and it invites us on a journey through the corridors of memory and the specters of the soul.
The song opens with a line that instantly grabs your attention: “Seen my own ghost on the side of the road, from the corner of my eye and I drove on by.” Mallman’s voice, imbued with a touch of world-weariness that perfectly complements the lyrical theme, sets the stage for a journey through the desolate landscape of loss and heartbreak.
Lyrically, Mallman delves into the depths of existential introspection, exploring themes of loss, betrayal, and the inexorable passage of time. Each verse unfolds like a vignette, painting vivid portraits of spectral encounters that haunt the protagonist’s psyche, serving as poignant reminders of past traumas and unfulfilled desires. Lines such as “People gonna lie about anything, I guess, I been lied to by the best” resonate with raw authenticity, inviting listeners to confront the harsh realities of human deceit and vulnerability.
The production pays homage to Mallman’s well-documented love for 80s music. The song’s structure is pure alternative rock, driven by a pulsating rhythm section and shimmering synths that evoke the spirit of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” a clear inspiration for the track. The deliberate use of these retroelements creates a soundscape that feels both familiar and strangely unsettling, mirroring the protagonist’s encounter with his past.
The brilliance of the song lies not just in its catchy melody and introspective lyrics, but also in the accompanying music video. Cinematographer Wilson Webb paints a visual landscape that mirrors the emotional turmoil of the song. Stephen Somers’s visual effects seamlessly blend reality with the spectral, further solidifying the protagonist’s haunted existence. Together, the audio and visual elements create a deeply immersive experience, inviting the listener to become fully invested in the narrative.
As we immerse ourselves in Mallman’s haunting melodies, we are reminded that in the darkness of night, even our ghosts can become our companions, guiding us on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. And in the end, perhaps it is through embracing our shadows that we truly find the light. So, let us welcome Mark Mallman with open arms as he unveils the spectral wonders of “Seen My Own Ghost,” inviting us to embark on a journey through the corridors of memory and introspection. In his music, we find not only solace but also the courage to confront our ghosts and emerge stronger on the other side.
Listen to “Seen My Own Ghost” by Mark Mallman on Spotify, watch the video with the above link, and let us know your thoughts.
You can follow Mark Mallman here for more information.
