:: Lyrics of a cursed poet, Mychael Ghost

Obscure and charismatic, Mychael Ghost could perfectly fit in the shoes of a main character in a Tim Burton movie – but instead of exploring occult fantasy lands he decided to become a storyteller inside the darkest side of Miami’s music scene.

Since 2007 Mychael has been singing about love, loss, and desperation as the front man of Astari Nite, one of the most popular local bands. Along with Albert Grey, Rebekah Furey and Illia Tulloch, Mychael has been showcasing Astari Nite’s melodies across the US, their music has even reached Europe and Latin America’s underground scenes.

Days before releasing Astari Nite’s “Requiem Mass EP” at The Stage, Mychael Ghost invited WFK to his world.

WFK : Mychael Ghost, when did your affair with music start?
Mychael Ghost: Growing up I was privileged to have two socialite siblings so I was introduced to music at an early age, I recall gatherings being held at my home occasionally so songs from bands like Duran Duran, The Bangles, Pet shop boys and Prince often were the soundtrack of what seemed to be a never ending summer. Winter eventually came and I haven’t stopped listening to those bands ever since, it’s been a long term affair.

Do you remember the first record that you ever bought? How did you come about it?
“Purple Rain” was the first vinyl I ever held in my hands. It was Christmas and it was my gift to myself, I would listen to that song over and over again staring out the window wondering what made this person capable of writing such a masterpiece.

If you had to describe Mychael Ghost, the musician, in three words what would they be?
Lithe, petrified, unfathomable.

Despite music, is there any other artistic discipline that you are interested in?
Nostalgia, I often gaze into deep stares of how it use to be, things that I have done or gone through with someone someplace in time, I believe my mind is a canvas that belongs to me, no one can take that away from me, some people draw pictures in the sand, others recite poetry to crowded rooms, remembering is my art, I will never forget.

Why did you decide to start playing with Astari Nite?
It wasn’t an option, it was fate, it was something that had to happen between four individuals who believe in each other. Astari Nite gave me life, I was able to finally breathe without caution.

You are about to release your second EP with your band, Astari Nite, tell us the story behind this upcoming production.
Our guitar player, Albert Grey, had a plan of attack in his mind of how this sophomore EP should be mapped out. Grey introduced Josh Rohe to us, he later became the mastermind who recorded and mixed our “Requiem Mass EP”. We are pleased to have established a relationship with Josh. He has a technique like no other and his craft is being noticed worldwide. We sent our tracks titled “Astrid”, “Saddest Satellite”, “Prayer for lovers” and “Gestures of Submission” to a foreign land for a gentleman by the name of Thomas Penton to be mastered and that he did. A dear friend of mine, Micke, front man for an amazing band called “Rebel” completed the art work.

What are the most important elements that you think have to be present in a great song?
An enchanting story embraced by an orchestrated sound

Being a Musician in Miami, is it an easy trajectory? What are the obstacles you have to overcome to maintain your band?
You know, to be honest, Astari Nite has been very fortunate since we started. Achieving management by Creator Entertainment and also signing with SESAC as our publishing label, truly convinced us that “yes someone is taking notice of us”. There is a time and place for everything in this life we live. Obstacles can be learned from and can also be clearly avoided as well. Danny Chasan is our manager and founding member of Creator Entertainment, his brilliance helps us avoid anything that can damage our future.

Are there any artists from Miami that you find inspiring?
Anyone one who’s name begins with a letter from the alphabet and are brave enough to follow their vision, these are the indivuals I find inspiring.

Join Astari Nite this Saturday at The Stage as they celebrate the release of their Requiem Mass EP
More information about the party click here