Since 2023, Hartford’s Ghost Trader have been committed to finding ways to push the boundaries of what’s familiar. Founded by brothers Max and John Hilton after coming up in the San Fernando Valley hardcore scene, where they learned that the music they make can be more than what’s played. It can be community, it can be escape, it can be powerful, it can be whatever you want it to be. When it came time to relocate across the country, to be closer to family, they took that feeling with them and used it to fuel the ethos that would drive Ghost Trader: a band that takes eclectic influences to create something that’s honest in a world that can feel so insincere.

Max’s background as a singer/songwriter gave him the tools to use melody to articulate through the bands more powerful and more chaotic moments, while still providing a solid foundation in his guitar playing to let everyone shine. His lyrics range from intimate and personal to philosophic and observational, asking the deeper questions of the world and his place in it.

John uses his upbringing in hardcore and penchant for post rock sensibilities to create powerful ambience, intermingling stinging melodies with lush atmosphere to create movement in the songs. Treating guitar parts more like symphonic movements that allow the songs to ebb and flow, like the dancing waters of a current. With these elements in place all that was needed was to finish out their lineup.

Jesse McGrath was then approached to play bass. His background in djent/metalcore bring a precision and power that balances out the dynamics the others bring to the table. Whether it’s stabilizing and locking in on some of the bands mathier grooves or bringing energy and life when the guitars are shoegazey and ethereal, Jesse proves that bass is more than just a background instrument.

On drums, Justin Vensel is the pulse that brings the songs to life. A craftsman at heart, Justin approaches every song with meticulous precision and care. Providing nuanced polyrhythms and effortless groove, that give the songs substance while still flowing effortlessly into one another. Justin is the glue that holds everything together and makes everything feel smooth and powerful.

Together they bring an eclectic mix of heavy hitting melody with purpose and intent. They are a band with a simple goal, to make music they are passionate about in a landscape that seems to reward the superficial. To make music that sounds and feels real. It only makes sense that, not long after releasing their debut EP ‘Beneath Us’, they would immediately begin writing and recording new material with Jack Shirley (known for his work producing bands such as Deafheaven, Gouge Away, State Faults, Jeff Rosenstock, and Joyce Manor). Recording everything live to tape, an honest reflection of the band exactly as they sound. Further cementing their commitment to the importance of being human in a world where almost everything feels manufactured.

With the new year fresh on the horizon, Ghost Trader are looking to show just who they are and what they can create. Something cinematic, emotionally honest, and as powerful as a locomotive into your heart. Showing, that in a world of uncertainty, sometimes letting people know they aren’t alone can make all the difference.