Sleeping At Last may not be a band that strikes familiarity with most music listeners, but their new album Ghosts is quickly gaining recognition across the country.
Sleeping At Last has progressed to a recent signing with Interscope Records and has produced a strong new album under the label. Their sound is somewhat mellow, yet rock elements have a strong presence within their music. Sleeping At Last seems to create a happy medium between The Smashing Pumpkins and early Radiohead.
They started in 1998 as a garage band in Wheaton, Ill. It’s composed of brothers Ryan and Chad O’Neal and friend Dan Perdue.
Opening the album is the track “Say,” a somewhat upbeat piece that provides a good introduction to what you’ll be hearing for the next 47 minutes: Ryan’s powerful vocals set to melodic guitars that crash into dynamic choruses. The title track leaves the rock trend of the album and embraces an enchanting piano composition.
Take away the music and you’re still left with 11 examples of talent.
Ryan’s passion shines through his lyrics as he screams them from his soul. Each song is a different take on Ryan’s faith. “Slowly, Now” is about a Christian’s journey to becoming more Christ-like in the midst of opposition. “Night Must End” reflects on letting go of the past and looking to God for strength. The songs are unique because unlike most Christian music, the lyrics are not direct, they require a deeper look, and past the surface lies incredible meaning.
The band got a huge boost when they ran into Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins and Zwan) at the Metro in Chicago. After listening to their CD, Corgan took interest in their work and began helping the guys with song arrangement. He has been a big supporter of the band.
Ghosts may not be the most original album to hit stores, but these guys are headed in the right direction. Sleeping At Last has been Chicago’s little secret, yet Ryan, Chad and Dan are beginning to make an impression nationally. Their new album is a great reflection of poetics and maturing musical talent.
Sleeping At Last has successfully blended relational lyrics and quality music to create a beautiful expression of the band, an expression that is sure to gain recognition in both Christian and mainstream music.