The Besnard Lakes Are the Ghost Nation by The Besnard Lakes
Release date: October 10, 2025Label: Full Time Hobby
This Montreal post-rock collective has just released their seventh studio album, their first since 2021’s The Besnard Lakes Are the Last of the Great Thunderstorm Warnings. They’ve emerged from the dense gloom of that recording and have thrown back the curtains to let in some light. Mind you, in these troubled times, the term Ghost Nation refers to the death of nations, with the threat of Canada unwillingly becoming the 51st state. There is a vein of melancholy that winds through these compositions, glorious as they are.
The opener is ‘Calling Ghost Nations’, comprised of many sonic layers and demanding a good set of headphones to totally appreciate it. I love the slow throb of the bass, and the soft percussive clicks before vocals and guitar join forces. As an American suffering through the horror of my country’s boneheaded, cruel moves, this music makes me feel so alive and gives me hope. I am also totally enamored with ‘Chemin de la Baie (Bay Road)’, the watery, warped electronic motes underscoring the pastoral cadence that permeates this lovely song. ‘Carried It All Around’ has a lot happening on multiple levels, and it unfolds majestically into a perfect pop song.
‘In Hollywood’ is one of the singles, and it’s a curious and trippy melange of shadows and light. I cannot decide which shading wins, but it’s a compelling listen nonetheless. ‘Pontiac Spirits’ pivots a bit and is rooted in classically influenced post rock. ‘Battle Lines’ is dominated up front with some fine piano work before moving into orchestral pop and majestic harmonies. I am reminded a tad of Yellow House era Grizzly Bear. It is arguably the best track on an already stellar record. ‘The Clouds Are Casting Shadows from the Sunlight’ is the shortest song here, and the title could be a theme for this entire song suite. ‘Give Us Our Dominion’ is another single, and is the final cut on this record. It is another pretty piece, though the playful sonics contrast sharply with the solemn vocals. The music is stirring, and it is a fine way to end this release.
