The Weight of Displaced Souls: An Analysis of “Ghosts” by August Burns Red

Released as a standout single from their 2015 album Found in Far Away Places, “Ghosts” represents a pivotal moment in August Burns Red’s discography. Featuring guest vocals from Jeremy McKinnon of A Day to Remember, the track blends technical metalcore precision with a deeply empathetic narrative regarding homelessness and the societal tendency to ignore those in need.

Lyrical Themes: The Invisible Population

The core metaphor of the song is established in its title. “Ghosts” refers to the homeless population—individuals who exist in plain sight but are treated as though they are transparent or non-existent by the rest of society.

• Social Apathy: The lyrics challenge the listener’s habit of “looking through” people on the street. It critiques the internal justifications we use to avoid helping, such as assuming someone is responsible for their own misfortune.
• A Call for Empathy: Instead of judgment, the song pleads for recognition of shared humanity. Lines like “They are the ones we walk by / They are the ones we ignore” serve as a mirror, forcing the audience to confront their own passivity.

Musical Composition and Collaboration

Musically, “Ghosts” showcases the signature ABR sound: intricate guitar work by JB Brubaker and Brent Rambler, backed by Matt Greiner’s relentless and complex drumming.

• The McKinnon Factor: Jeremy McKinnon’s contribution is significant. While Jake Luhrs provides the guttural, commanding verses that represent the harsh reality of the situation, McKinnon’s melodic chorus offers a soaring, anthemic contrast. This dynamic creates a “call and response” feel between the frustration of the ignored and the hope for a more compassionate world.
• The Bridge: True to August Burns Red’s progressive tendencies, the song features a moody, atmospheric bridge that strips away the distortion. It creates a moment of reflection before building back into a powerful, breakdown-heavy finale.

Impact and Legacy

“Ghosts” was more than just a successful single; it was a mission statement for the band during the Found in Far Away Places era. The song earned the band a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance in 2016, a testament to its technical quality and emotional resonance.

By centering the song on a social issue rather than personal introspection or abstract concepts, August Burns Red solidified their place as one of the “conscientious” leaders of the metalcore genre.

“We wanted to write a song that speaks for the people who don’t have a voice. It’s about realizing that every person you pass has a story and deserves dignity.” — General sentiment shared by the band during the album’s release.