Voltaire’s Ghost A Fresh Approach to Gothic Rock and Dark Pop

E Monthly News Contributor

Voltaire’s Ghost, a band hailing from the picturesque hills of Western Colorado, has become a name to watch in the evolving landscape of Gothic rock and dark pop. With a unique blend of influences ranging from Rock to Classical, the band has crafted a sound that captivates listeners and sets them apart in today’s music scene. Their impressive achievements in 2025, including advancing to the Top 5 in the America’s Next Top Hitmaker contest, are only the beginning of what aims to be a notable musical journey.

The Origins of Voltaire’s Ghost

The journey of Voltaire’s Ghost began in 2023 when guitarist Magnus, a native of Grand Junction, Colorado, embarked on a solo project. Over the summer, he composed and released a new single every Tuesday from May to September. This ambitious undertaking resulted in 17 tracks, including symphonic pieces such as Night of the Pumpkin Thieves, which was originally created for a movie soundtrack. The overwhelming response to the singles helped the band catch the attention of industry professionals.

One such professional was Dean Miller, an award-winning Nashville producer, who was impressed by the band’s work. By the end of summer 2023, Magnus and Miller had plans to record an EP together in Nashville. However, there was one issue—Magnus did not yet have a full band. To resolve this, he began assembling a lineup, recruiting Ruby Juhl as the lead vocalist and Joshua Eggstaff as the drummer. With temporary pianist Max Reilly joining the group, the newly formed band started rehearsing for their recording sessions in Nashville, which took place in January 2024.

A Rapid Rise in the Music Industry

Voltaire’s Ghost quickly gained traction in the music industry. In February 2024, their single Death Becomes You made a notable entry onto the MediaBase Top 40 Radio Chart, peaking at No. 39. This marked the band’s first entry into the U.S. Top 40. Produced by Dean Miller, the song tells the story of a female vampire pleading with her human lover to join her in immortality, a dark and seductive narrative that resonated with listeners.

The track’s success was further amplified when a remix by Grammy-nominated producer StoneBridge was released. The remix reached No. 5 on the UK Commercial Pop Chart, cementing the global appeal of Voltaire’s Ghost’s music. Released under the band’s own label, NEMESIS Records, this track showcased the band’s growing independence and control over their creative output.

Following this success, the band released Alix Street on May 27, 2024. Inspired by the vibrant culture of pre-Katrina New Orleans, Alix Street became an instant favorite among listeners. It quickly gained attention on Spotify’s Release Radar playlist and received significant airplay on radio stations like 99.3 FM in Salina, Kansas, and 97.9 KISS FM in Upstate New York. The track’s success helped the band continue building momentum in their career.

Press Coverage and Live Performances

The success of Voltaire’s Ghost has garnered significant media attention. On June 5, 2024, the band was featured in a prominent publication, where their distinctive fusion of Gothic and Rock influences was highlighted. The band has also been profiled in various other outlets, further solidifying their increasing presence in the music industry.

In addition to press coverage, Voltaire’s Ghost has been making waves with their live performances. The band appeared at the world-renowned South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas, in March 2024, including a debut performance at Shiner’s Saloon on 6th Street. Their live shows continue to attract attention, and the band is scheduled to perform in California and Florida later in 2025, including a return to the historic Whisky A Go-Go in Los Angeles on September 30th.

Upcoming Releases and Future Plans

As the band’s popularity continues to grow, they are hard at work on their debut full-length album, Black Petals Fallen, slated for release in late 2025. The album, which was recorded at Fusion Audio Solutions in Colorado, is being mixed by Grammy-nominated engineer Joe Ayoub. It will feature 13 tracks, continuing the band’s signature blend of melodic Rock with Gothic and Classical influences.

In addition to their full-length album, the band is preparing to release an expanded and re-mastered version of their first EP, NEMESIS, which will include bonus tracks and live material. This re-release, scheduled for late 2025, aims to offer fans an even deeper insight into the band’s musical evolution.

Voltaire’s Ghost: A Band to Watch

With their distinctive sound and rapid rise in the music world, Voltaire’s Ghost has firmly established itself as a band to watch in 2025 and beyond. Their ability to seamlessly blend Gothic and Classical elements with modern Rock sensibilities has allowed them to carve out a unique space in the music industry. Their chart-topping success, media profiles, and impressive live performances are just a glimpse of what’s to come.

As Voltaire’s Ghost continues to expand their reach, their upcoming album Black Petals Fallen and re-mastered EP NEMESIS are set to further solidify their place in the industry. With their passion, talent, and creative vision, Voltaire’s Ghost is poised for a promising future in the music world.