If You Have Ghost cover

If You Have Ghost

Ghost · 2013

24 min · 5 tracks · hard rock

A theatrical blend of hard rock and pop sensibilities, wrapped in ghostly atmospherics and melodic hooks.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    If You Have Ghosts — The title track stands out with its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, reflecting the band's unique approach to storytelling through music.
  • →
    I’m a Marionette — This cover of an ABBA classic transforms the original into a dark, brooding meditation on control and manipulation, illustrating Ghost's ability to recontextualize familiar songs.
  • →
    Crucified — With its infectious chorus and driving rhythm, this track exemplifies Ghost’s knack for blending heavy instrumentation with catchy hooks, making it a highlight of the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong covers with a distinct sound but lacks the depth of original material.

What we noticed

  • The first track features a slow build with layered vocals and atmospheric instrumentation, creating a haunting introduction.
  • The EP concludes with a live version of 'Secular Haze,' which adds crowd interaction and energy, contrasting with the studio tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • eerie melodies for dark nights
  • haunting themes of existential dread
  • gradual build to emotional climax
  • immersive listening in sequence

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
  • seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — An EP showcasing covers that adds depth but isn't a standout entry point.
Career context
Released in 2013, If You Have Ghost marks a significant moment for Ghost as it was their first EP following their critically acclaimed debut album, Infestissumam. This release showcases their evolution into a more polished sound while maintaining their signature aesthetic, paving the way for their later commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors
Avenged Sevenfold· Marilyn Manson· Mastodon

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 If You Have Ghosts 3:32
  • 2 I’m a Marionette 4:50
  • 3 Crucified 5:13
  • 4 Waiting for the Night 5:38
  • 5 Secular Haze (live) 5:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata